ILOILO City – The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) expressed their support and participated in the 18-day campaign to end violence against women (VAW).
Major General Marion Sison, 3ID commander and Brigadier General Leonardo Peña, assistant division commander, along with the division’s gender and development office, led the activity on Tuesday, Nov. 28, at the 3ID headquarters in Jamindan, Capiz.
They also signed a pledge of commitment to end VAW, said 3ID spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel J-Jay Javines.
Sison said the division’s participation in the campaign serves as a reminder to all 3ID personnel of their crucial role in ending violence against women not only in their respective units, in their homes, but also in the communities where they belong.
“Our active involvement is not only for the duration of the campaign but a part of our lifelong commitment to ending VAW. Violence against women will only end if we respect and honor our women. Hence, let us all devote and dedicate ourselves in maintaining high ethical standards, professionalism and discipline among ourselves and in our respective units by treating everyone with dignity and honor regardless of gender, origin and affiliation,” Sison said.
Meanwhile, General Romeo Brawner Jr., the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, in his message, emphasized the importance of empowering the women and giving them equal status, privileges and opportunities to become more active partners and productive individuals in nation building.
“The issue of violence against women is not confined to the Philippines; it is a global phenomenon. However, in the AFP, we envision a world free from violence against women, and it is crucial that we collaborate and share knowledge to turn this campaign into a catalyst for change. Through education and awareness, we can empower our communities in their vital role in eliminating violence against women,” Brawner said./PN
