As a journalist and educator, I have spent years telling stories – stories that expose injustice, amplify resilience, and hold those in power accountable. Among the most important of these are the stories of women and children who experience violence. Fighting violence against women and children (VAWC) and promoting gender equality have been central to my advocacy, whether in classrooms, newsrooms, or community initiatives.
My collaboration with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) goes back to my years as a broadcast journalist with ABS-CBN. Together, we have conducted forums, trainings, and awareness campaigns to protect the rights and dignity of women and children, even in custodial settings. These experiences have shown me that ending violence is both systemic and deeply personal.
“Every woman and child under BJMP care deserves dignity, fairness, and humanity.”
Just recently, the BJMP in Negros Island Region invited me to their culminating activity in relation to the 18-Day Campaign to End VAWC. In my keynote message, I underscored how critical the role of the BJMP is in ensuring that the institution and facility is VAW-free. For when we talk about protecting rights, they are the guardians of those who often have no one else. A gender-responsive BJMP recognizes the unique needs shaped by trauma and inequality, while listening with empathy can break the cycle of violence. Supporting healing through rehabilitation programs, referrals, and partnerships transforms fear into hope.
This was beautifully reflected in their culminating activity which featured the creative works of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). Through drawings, paintings, and exhibits, PDLs expressed their understanding of VAW, actively participating in the movement while fostering inclusivity, creativity, and productivity.
“Their artworks are more than expression—they are a testament to resilience and reflection.”
The institution’s zero tolerance for abuse sends a clear message: violence is never acceptable – not in our homes, communities, or institutions. These principles guide my work as an educator and journalist. Programs like the WAN-IFRA Women in News Leadership Accelerator reinforced that leadership is most meaningful when it protects the vulnerable and drives systemic change.
Our work also advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal. Protecting rights and implementing gender-responsive programs contributes to SDG 5: Gender Equality, while accountability and humane treatment reinforce SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Psychosocial support and trauma-informed care uphold SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being., and training personnel and empowering PDLs advances SDG 4: Quality Education. Partnerships with non-government organizations (NGOs), schools like STI West Negros University, and international organizations embody SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, reminding us that ending VAWC requires collective action.
Jail Senior Superintendent Marie Rose Laguyo, Assistant Regional Director for Administration of BJMP-NIR emphasized that the campaign is not just to promote awareness but more of a call to action.
“We have shown compassion. This is already a call to action. I am proud to say that our institution, the BJMP-NIR, is advocating GAD-related activities, championing the advocacy to stop violence against women. Through all the activities we have held in the past 17 days, we were able to understand and empathize with the journey of women who have experienced different forms of violence,” said Laguyo.
As we conclude the 18-Day Campaign Against Violence Against Women and Children, I am reminded that change is built one step at a time. Every policy implemented, every empathetic conversation, and every opportunity to support healing matters. Working alongside BJMP personnel, we see that protecting rights, fostering resilience, and creating inclusive spaces are not abstract ideals – they are tangible actions that can transform lives. My commitment, as a journalist, educator, and advocate, is to continue supporting these efforts, ensuring that women and children are not only safe but also empowered to participate in shaping a more just and compassionate society.*
