18 July 2014 - The Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou sponsored its first film-showing in support of the Gender and Development (GAD) advocacy of the Department of Foreign Affairs on July 09 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The movie screening was attended by officers and members of the Filipino Teachers in China (Filteach), Guangzhou Filipino Students Union (GFSU) and officers and staff of the Consulate General, and other members of the Filipino community.
The film showing featured the movie “Insiang,” which supports the Consulate General’s campaign against sexual harassment and violence against women and children. It is a film directed by Lino Brocka, who was awarded posthumous distinction as a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 1997. “Insiang” is given recognition for being the first Filipino film to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 1978. Filipino actress Hilda Koronel won the Manila Film Festival Best Actress Award for her outstanding portrayal of the lead character. The film evolved around the life of “Insiang” who was sexually molested by her stepfather and her quest for revenge.
In his opening remarks, Philippine Consul General Raly L.Tejada encouraged the audience to educate themselves on relevant laws to protect the women in Philippine society.
After the movie screening, Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) Officer Judy B. Razon discussed Philippine laws related to the subject, particularly Republic Act No. 7877 or the “Anti-sexual Harassment Act of 1995” and Republic Act No. 9562 or the “Act Defining Violence against Women and their Children, providing for Protective Measures for Victims, Prescribing Penalties Therefor, and for other Purposes.” Ms. Razon also discussed ATN services available to victims such as counseling and legal advice on remedies available under existing laws. Copies of the said laws were provided to the audience for their reference.
Further group discussion was facilitated by Ms. Minerva Lourdes de Guzman, one of the active Filipino teachers based in Guangzhou.
In her closing remarks, Consul Judy Barbara G. Robianes advocated prevention as the best tool to avoid sexual harassment, and emphasized the need for women to always be on guard and avoid situations that would compromise their safety.
The attendees expressed anticipation for future film showings by the Consulate General and assured the support for such projects benefiting the Filipino community.
Snacks and juices from Liwayway (China) and San Miguel beer were served during the event.
After the film showing, four Filipinos also registered as overseas voters. END