Kuala Lumpur, 13 December 2024 - The Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur successfully concluded its participation in the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), which had the theme "UNiTEd for a VAW-free Philippines," and the sub-theme "VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras."

From 25 November to 12 December 2024, the Embassy engaged in a variety of activities aimed at raising awareness about this important issue. On 25 November 2024, Ambassador Maria Angela Ponce, joined a panel discussion for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women titled “Fighting Violence Against Women: Where are We Now?” The event, hosted by the Embassy of France in Malaysia in collaboration with the Alliance Française de Kuala Lumpur, provided a platform for dialogue on global efforts to combat gender-based violence.

In her remarks, Ambassador Ponce emphasized the significance of international initiatives such as the Spotlight Initiative, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5). She particularly highlighted SDG Target 5.2, which aims to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls, including trafficking, exploitation, and other types of abuse. She noted that while progress has been made in areas like education and political participation, more action is needed to effectively address gender-based violence. The panel also featured distinguished speakers, namely Ms. Fatma Hassan, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Egypt; Ms. Mariela Machado, Chargé d’affaires of the Embassy of Uruguay; Ms. Finaswani Binti Mohamed Zin, Corporate Affairs and Engagement Director of L’Oréal Malaysia & Singapore; and Ms. Sarina Sundara Rajah, Founder of the Association Safe Sport Malaysia.

The Embassy also participated in the Larian Oren (Orange Run) on 23 November 2024 at Gemilang Putrajaya Square, where participants wore orange to show their support for ending violence against women.

The Embassy’s participation in this year’s campaign reflects the Philippines' commitment to addressing violence against women and supporting efforts to create a safer environment for women and girls. END

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