Women's rights group GABRIELA on Thursday, Feb. 13, called for a collective "rising" against violence against women and children (VAWC), urging communities to take a stand and demand stronger policies and protection measures.
GABRIELA, in a statement, said: “Many women still struggle to come forward after experiencing harassment and/or assault due to reasons ranging from shame to fear for their and their families' safety, especially in cases where the perpetrator holds power or influence.”
The group called for stronger efforts to fight VAWC following the reported assault of DJ Jellie Aw by her fiancé, Jam Ignacio. The former went viral on social media after releasing photos of the aftermath of Ignacio's beating.
Support for DJ Jellie
GABRIELA also expressed support for DJ Jellie Aw in her bid for justice after the assault by Ignacio.
"We recognize the courage it took for DJ Jellie Aw to publicly speak out about the abuse she suffered at the hands of her fiancé," said GABRIELA Secretary General Clarice Palce.
"We stand behind her in her fight to hold Jam Ignacio accountable for his crimes," Palce added.
GABRIELA said it fully welcomes and supports any voice that contributes to ending the culture of silence surrounding various forms of VAWC.
Palce noted that DJ Jellie's experience “resonates with thousands of women and children in communities who likewise suffer abuse within and outside their homes.”
“Thus, it is paramount that we all come together and fight to end VAWC, including rape and sexual exploitation, which have seen an alarming rise in cases, especially among young women and girls,” Palce stressed.
As part of its campaign against VAWC, GABRIELA serves as the lead local organization for the global One Billion Rising (OBR) campaign, which traditionally holds a major activity every Feb. 14.
With this year's themes, “Rise for Freedom and Rise Against Fascism,” the group urged all advocates of women's rights to participate in and/or organize similar "risings" to highlight women's call for freedom from violence and to press the government for urgent action to address the growing cases of VAWC.
"Rise with us and lend your voice to the call to end VAWC. Rise for freedom from abuse and exploitation. Rise for justice," Palce said.