AFP backs drive to end violence vs women

MANILA, Philippines - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Defense department will conduct a series of activities in support of the government’s campaign to end violence against women.

AFP spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said the activities will be held within the 18-day campaign, which started yesterday and will go on until Dec. 12.

“The activities will aim for the elimination of all forms of violence against women and strengthening local and international efforts,” Burgos said.

The campaign’s theme is “Violence against women: Free society in times of peace, conflict and calamity.”

The campaign, which is being led by the Philippine Commission on Women, kicked off with an advocacy walk called “Walk and Roll” from the EDSA People Power Monument to Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

Military and defense personnel participated in the activity.

A photo exhibit about domestic violence will be launched today after the flag-raising ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo.

A livelihood bazaar featuring programs and business opportunities for women will be set up during the campaign period.

Burgos said booths featuring different products sold by female entrepreneurs and their families would be erected at the parking lot of the Camp Aguinaldo Grandstand.

Data from the 2008 National Demographic and Health Survey show that one in five women aged 5 to 49 has experienced physical violence since age 15.

The survey revealed that 14.4 percent of married women have experienced physical abuse from their husbands and more than one-third or 37 percent of separated or widowed women have experienced physical violence.

Meanwhile, one in 25 women aged 15 to 49 had experienced forced sexual intercourse. The survey also revealed that one in 10 women aged 15 to 49 have experienced sexual violence.

“Development will not be possible without the full participation of women. That is entirely true especially in the AFP as we continue to build a stronger and more gender responsive military organization,” AFP chief Gen. Jessie Dellosa said.