PHL Embassy in Ottawa Commemorates 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women

The PHL Embassy in Ottawa commemorated the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women with the screenings of two films, namely, “Ang Babae sa Likod ng Mambabatok” (The Woman Behind the Tattoo Artist) by Lauren Sevilla Faustino and “Insiang” by Lino Brocka on December 01 and December 07, respectively. The films featured two vastly diverse stories of women and their experiences within their communities. In her opening remarks for the films, Ambassador Petronila Garcia underscored that while the Philippines consistently ranks high on the United Nations Gender Development Index, violence against women does happen and remains an issue of public concern for the Philippines. She enjoined the audience to remember the lessons imparted in the films and to continue to uphold the rights and welfare of women in all societies. The film screenings were conducted as part of the Philippine Exhibit “Halo-Halo: The Multicultural Roots of the Filipino Diaspora” which ran at Canada’s International Pavilion from November 21 to December 08, in cooperation with the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board, and the Film Development Council of the Philippines.