The City Government of Isabela under the administration of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), conducted an Orientation for Male Advocates on Kalalakihang Tapat sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya (KaTROPa), RA 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act, Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC), and Trafficking in Persons (TIP), December 2.
The activity formed part of the city’s observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, a national advocacy aimed at strengthening public awareness and encouraging stronger community involvement in preventing gender-based violence.
City Social Welfare and Development Officer Nor-Aina Asmara, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of involving men as active partners in promoting safe spaces and respectful relationships within families and communities.
GAD Focal Person and City Information Officer Mendry-Ann Lim provided a message of support, underscoring the city’s continued commitment to gender equality, protection, and empowerment. She highlighted that Gender and Development (GAD) is not exclusive to women and should be understood as an inclusive framework that benefits everyone. Lim stressed that men are also essential partners in advancing gender equality, noting that they, too, have roles and responsibilities in fostering safe, respectful, and supportive environments for women. She emphasized that when men actively participate in promoting women’s rights and protection, communities become stronger, safer, and more equitable for all.
Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Atty. Waldemar Johasan discussed key provisions of RA 11313, VAWC, TIP, and KaTROPa, equipping participants with the knowledge needed to identify, prevent, and report cases of gender-based harassment and violence.
The orientation was attended by tour guides, drivers, bangkeros, and representatives from LGBTQ groups, all of whom play vital roles in promoting safety in public spaces and workplaces. Their participation strengthens the city’s collaborative efforts to foster a violence-free environment.
Participants also took a Pledge of Commitment to uphold gender-sensitive practices in their daily interactions and to support ongoing campaigns that protect women and children.
Through activities such as this, the City Government of Isabela reaffirms its dedication to advancing gender equality and ensuring that every Isabeleño lives in a community that values respect, safety, and dignity for all. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
