Violence against women (VAW) appears as one of the country’s prevalent social problems. According to the 2008 National Demographic and Health Survey conducted by the National Statistics Office, one in five Filipino women age 15-49 has experienced physical violence since age 15. It is indeed alarming that despite the efforts to address the concern, VAW persists. Violence comes in many forms. It is not just physical, like a black eye or a swollen face. Other forms of violence are less visible but equally painful and damaging. 1) Physical violence; 2) Sexual violence; 3) Emotional violence; and 4) Economic violence.

In order to be cognizant of one of the social problems of our country, Kabankalan City Water District together with the Himamaylan Water District join the national observance of the 18-day campaign to end violence against women and conducted an “Orientation Seminar on Anti- Violence Against Women and Children” last November 30, 2016, spearheaded by the two General Managers of the above mentioned water districts, Engr. Ricardo M. Regalia, Jr. of KCWD and Engr. Joel Gellecanao of HWD, participated with the employees of both agencies. And to fully understand the said advocacy, Mrs. Chona P. Tamang of Women Welfare Program of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) explained the content of the Republic Act No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence against Women and Their Children Act of 2004.

Since protection program was under VAWC Law, SPO1 Connie C. Diaz of Philippine National Police discussed and explained the pros and cons of the violations which could help and protect women and children. She also conferred about Women and Children Protection Department (WCPD) Office function and responsibilities and how they respond the situation.

In the afternoon activity was about Group Dynamics and Processing deliberated by Pastor Silmer B. Escobin. He articulated with the attitude and behavioral pattern of individual and of a group. He talked about knowing oneself, knowing your peers most especially on how to deal with your co-worker. He ended the discussion with a quote in the bible in Jeremiah 29: 11 that say “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plan to give you a future”. (NIV)