THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) joined the nationwide 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) during a simultaneous flag-raising ceremony on Monday, Nov. 9, at Naval Station Felix Apolinario, calling for sustained vigilance and concrete action to protect women and girls in vulnerable communities.
Spearheaded by EastMinCom deputy commander BGEN Charlie L. Tiu Jr., officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian staff gathered under the national campaign theme, “UNiTEd for a VAW-free Philippines.”
During the ceremony, chief of public information office COL Rosa Ma. Cristina Rosete-Manuel led military and civilian personnel in a solemn pledge to uphold gender equality, safeguard women’s rights, and foster a military workplace rooted in mutual respect and shared responsibility.
Delivering a message on behalf of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, General Antonio G. Nafarrete, PA, BGen. Tiu underscored that combating gender-based violence requires consistent operational standards rather than temporary observances.
“Our commitment extends to the communities where we serve. In the performance of our duties, we must remain mindful of the safety and welfare of women and girls, especially those affected by conflict and other security challenges,” Nafarrete’s statement read.
“The effectiveness of our commitment will not be measured by the number of activities we conduct during these 18 days, but by the standards we maintain throughout the year.”
EastMinCom reiterated its operational commitment to ensuring that gender advocacy and protection protocols are embedded across all field operations, community engagements, and security missions throughout Southeastern Mindanao.
