The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Region 3 has reported zero cases of gender-based violence (GBV) in Central Luzon this year, marking a positive milestone for the region’s ongoing efforts to protect women’s rights.
While this achievement is encouraging, CHR officials emphasize the importance of maintaining vigilance to continue the progress in safeguarding women and other vulnerable groups from violence.
CHR 3 Promotion and Advocacy Division Chief Ysobel Maria Rivera acknowledged that, while no formal cases have been reported, GBV remains a persistent issue, often hidden or unreported. She urged continued proactive measures to address the root causes of discrimination and violence against women and all genders.
“While the reported cases are zero, there are still unreported or undocumented cases. Despite the laws, policies, and advocacy efforts, discrimination and violence are still happening in our society,” Rivera explained.
To maintain momentum, CHR has been intensifying its partnerships with local government units, civil society organizations, and the Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Center to monitor and address incidents of GBV. Rivera noted that efforts to uphold women’s rights in Central Luzon, including education campaigns, training, and seminars, have been strengthened.
CHR is also expanding its services to encourage individuals to report GBV incidents by offering legal assistance and providing a platform for policy recommendations aimed at improving victim protection.
In addition, Rivera highlighted the agency’s advocacy for stronger penalties against GBV offenders, reinforcing the importance of legal deterrents to ensure greater respect for human rights.
“We are pushing for more stringent policies to eliminate violence and discrimination against all genders,” Rivera said.
To enhance accessibility for reporting abuses, CHR has launched the CHR MISMO Serbisyong Oramismo (www.mismo.chr.gov.ph), an online platform allowing individuals to file complaints anytime and from anywhere. The agency also offers other communication channels, including its active Facebook page and dedicated hotline numbers.
As CHR continues to monitor, advocate, and provide support to victims of violence, Rivera remains hopeful that these efforts will lead to a more equitable and safer society.
“We envision a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live free from abuse and discrimination, and where women’s rights are respected and upheld,” she concluded.
The CHR encourages the public to report cases of abuse and discrimination, ensuring accountability and the continued protection of human rights. (PIA Region 3-Pampanga | Marie Joy S. Carbungco)
