BAGUIO CITY – Mayor Benjamin Magalong is calling on the public to break the silence and actively speak out against violence as the nation observes the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW).
Speaking during the campaign launch here on Monday, Magalong stressed the importance of community involvement in addressing VAW.
“Iniisip ng perpetrator nila it is a private matter kaya wala tayong pakialam (Perpetrators think it is a private matter, and we do not care), making the violators emboldened because the victim keeps silent, and we are also silent,” he said.
Citing the movie “Silent,” Magalong compared it to real-life situations where violence persists in communities because bystanders, or those in the know, choose not to intervene. He highlighted the growing prevalence of crimes such as rape, sexual harassment, and acts of lasciviousness, calling the trend “alarming.”
He noted that increasing awareness through information campaigns has encouraged victims to come forward, emphasizing that speaking up allows them to access support and regain control of their lives.
Maria Aplaten, regional director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Cordillera, also spoke at the event. She underscored the importance of solidarity in ending VAW, referencing the Cordilleran value of “binnadang” (mutual help).
“We stand together not just as advocates but as changemakers committed to building a safer society for women and children,” Aplaten said.
Survivor’s story
Charlyn June Fadchall Awing, a survivor of violence, shared her experience during the event. She recounted enduring five years of abuse at a young age, initially staying silent due to fear of judgment.
“I thought he was my knight in shining armor, but I was wrong,” she said. “I was afraid I would be blamed for my decisions, so I kept quiet. But I realized I had to end what I was going through.”
When she finally sought help, Awing discovered support systems that enabled her recovery.
“Wag matakot kasi may tutulong at importante na mahalin natin ang sarili natin (Do not be afraid because help is available. It is important to love ourselves),” she said, urging others to speak up to end their ordeal and begin a life of peace and security.
Awing, now a copyreader, continues to advocate for ending VAW and empowering survivors to rebuild their lives. **Liza Agoot
