Written by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon | Photos by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon & Daryne T. Mayol

Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur – In solidarity with the nationwide advocacy to end Violence Against Women (VAW), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) IX commenced its observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW with a kick-off ceremony and the relaunching of its Child-Minding Station on November 25, 2024, at the DILG IX Regional Office, Balintawak, Pagadian City. 

The event was highlighted by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil, CESO II, together with members of the DILG IX Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS). The relaunching of the Child-Minding Station demonstrates the agency’s commitment to fostering a gender-sensitive workplace by supporting the needs of working parents and promoting the welfare of children. 

This activity underscores DILG IX’s dedication to the goals of the campaign, advocating for a society free from violence and discrimination. The kick-off event also signaled the start of a series of activities that aim to raise awareness and inspire collective action against VAW in the region. 

DILG IX remains steadfast in its efforts to uphold gender equality and create safe spaces for everyone, both within its organization and in the communities it serves.