Press Release - UN agencies, Senator Pia partner for experiential exhibit raising awareness, action vs. violence against women

The United Nations (UN) Gender Thematic Group (GTG), in partnership with the Office of Senator Pia Cayetano, launched on Monday an experiential exhibit dubbed "Walk in Her Shoes" in support of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW).

The exhibit, which will be open to Senate visitors from Dec. 4 to 12, features stories of various sectors of women and girls, highlighting the forms of gender-based violence they face daily. It aims to raise awareness about the pervasiveness of VAW, prompt reflection on the prevailing social norms that reinforce this harmful behavior, and galvanize action to end VAW.

"Violence against women is a persistent, widespread, and worsening global crisis that demands immediate action. It is rooted in structural injustice and fueled by a male-dominated culture that denies women equality. Together, we must invest in prevention, support survivors, end impunity, and promote women's leadership to create a world free from violence against women," said Dr. Leila Joudane, Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and chair of the UN GTG.

Among the UN GTG members that contributed to the exhibit are UNFPA, UN Women, UNICEF, UN Development Programme (UNDP), International Labour Organization, World Food Programme, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and Food and Agriculture Organization. "The 'Walk in Her Shoes' exhibit is a creative and impactful way to raise awareness about gender-based violence and encourage action to end it," she added. "Through this exhibit and other means like social media, we must work together to raise public consciousness and action in order to protect women and children from becoming victims of violence in their own homes, communities and even online," said Senator Pia Cayetano.

As a strong advocate of women's rights and gender equality for nearly two decades, Senator Pia Cayetano has championed legislation to safeguard women and children from various forms of violence. These measures include: Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710); National Consciousness Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women & Children (RA 10398); Anti-Rape Law, as amended (RA 11648);