November 25 marks International Day for the Elimination of all Forms of Violence Against Women (VAW)

Since 1991, the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence has been held every year from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (IDEVAW), to December 10, Human Rights Day. 

In the Philippines, the campaign runs until December 12. Proclamation No. 1172 declares November 25 to December 12 of every year as the “18-Day campaign to End Violence Against Women.” The country also observes December 12 of every year as International Day Against Trafficking and November 25 of every year as “National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children” as declared through Republic Act 10398.

2020 is the year of women and today, in observance of IDEVAW, around one hundred fifty (150) women from different women’s rights groups gathered at the Commission on Human Rights today, November 25, 2020, to voice  their demands and show unity in resisting various forms of violence under the worsening conditions brought by the pandemic.

The collective of groups under World March of Women (WMW) – Pilipinas demonstrated their unity through solidarity speeches and cultural performances. The women’s rights advocates raised concerns on the worsening condition of migrant workers, women laborers, women forced into prostitution, and indigenous women, among others. Read more about the deepening economic crisis that intensify violence against women here.



In support of the 18-day campaign, the Foundation for Media Alternatives (FMA) will highlight the Feminist Principles of the Internet (FPIs) in action, primarily in Southeast Asia, to be published on FMA’s Facebook Page. The aim of FMA’s theme for the 18-day campaign is to make a collective of living narratives, perspectives, and relevant resources on how the feminist movement broadens conversation on FPIs and responds to the pandemic. 

How can we participate in the campaign? 

Each one of us is highly encouraged to engage and participate during the campaign for the elimination of all forms of violence against women and children. Let our voices be heard in various mediums available online, on radio, television, and on print.

1. Share campaign videos and posts via social media accounts
2. Change your profile picture or cover photo with official campaign photos.
3. Tune in any air plugs and official campaigns on TV and on the radio that feature stories of violence against women and children.
4. Create your own streamers, posters, articles, and written campaigns that raise awareness to end gender-based violence.
5. Use your creative juices for the advocacy and make DIY designs on shirts, accessories, personal artworks.
6. Wear the color orange on the 25th of November as the official color for the 18-day campaign.
7. Make a personal commitment to not condone or accept violence, and to speak up.
8. Have conversations with family and friends about the negative impact of VAWC on individuals and communities.
9. Educate yourself and others about the causes and consequences of VAWC.
10. To know more about the RA 10398 and the 18-Day Campaign, you may click on the following links:

• Philippine Commission on Women: 2020 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women
• UN Women: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence | 2020 UNiTE Campaign Theme: “Orange the World: Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect!”