PH Embassy in Wellington Holds Symposium to End  Violence Against Women

Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Jesus S. Domingo commended the support given by the different Filipino communities and multicultural groups in spreading awareness on violence against women. (Wellington PE photo)

WELLINGTON 02 January 2020 — The Philippine Embassy in Wellington, in cooperation with the White Ribbon New Zealand organization, held a symposium to mark the end of the observance of the 18-day campaign to end violence against women (VAW) on 12 November 2019.

The said campaign to end VAW, an annual advocacy observed in the Philippines from 25 November to 12 December, aims to protect the human rights of women and girls against all forms of gender-based violence.

Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Jesus S. Domingo said that, “The Philippine Embassy in Wellington continues to work with the different Filipino communities, shelters and multicultural councils to spread awareness against domestic violence.” He also called on members of the Filipino community to join the White Ribbon campaign and plans to introduce it in the Philippines.

New Zealand has the highest number of reported cases of domestic violence against women in the developed world. As such, the Embassy partnered with the White Ribbon New Zealand organization, founded in 2014, promotes safe, healthy relationships within families and encourages New Zealand men and boys to change their abusive attitudes and behaviour toward women and girls.

White Ribbon Manager and Board Member of Kapiti Living Without Violence Rob McCann said that, “Family violence is endemic in New Zealand (NZ) and that the NZ Government is doing steps to address the problem through passing legislation such as the Family Violence Act of 2018 and supporting the #UnspokenRules campaign.”

The theme for year 2016 to 2021 is “VAW-free community starts with Me”. END

Mr. Rob McCann accepted a plaque of appreciation from the Philippine Embassy for sharing the White Ribbon New Zealand’s advocacies. (Wellington PE photo)

The Philippine Embassy in Wellington Gender And Development (GAD) Focal Point Officer Consul Querobine Deapera Laccay, encouraged the attendees to continue to pledge their support in ending violence against women. (Wellington PE photo)

For more information, visit https://www.wellingtonpe.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.philembassy.org.nz or https://www.facebook.com/PHLinNZ/.