PR-31-2024
26 November 2024, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – The Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne organized a Special Talk and Get-Together on November 26, 2024, as part of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW). The event, attended by 30 participants, including representatives from non-government organizations and the Filipino community, highlighted efforts to address domestic and family violence (DV/FV).
Consul General Maria Lourdes M. Salcedo opened the event by reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to combating VAW, as mandated by Proclamation No. 1172, s. 2006, and Republic Act No. 10398. Highlighting the 2024 campaign theme, VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras!, she announced the Consulate’s plan to establish a practical referral system to streamline assistance for victims, which could serve as a model for other regions.
Ms. Melba Marginson, Chairperson of The Silent Witness Network (TSWN), shared the historical challenges faced by culturally diverse women, particularly Filipinas, during the 1980s and early 1990s. She noted the tragic deaths of 18 Filipina women due to DV/FV during that period and highlighted the Filipino community’s proactive role in advocating for reforms, including the establishment of the Centre for Philippine Concerns Australia (CPCA), which documented such cases and advocated for legal reforms. She also established TSWN as a culturally sensitive advocacy platform that works closely with Australian stakeholders and empowers communities through workshops, forums, and educational materials.
Consul Jan Sherwin P. Wenceslao presented the Consulate’s work in monitoring and referring DV/FV cases. The Consulate continues to work closely with Australian and Filipino organizations to provide comprehensive assistance, support and advocacy to Filipino victims of DV/FV. He emphasized the importance of information-sharing among these organizations to ensure cohesive victim support and advocate effectively for systematic solutions to DV/FV within Australian institutions.
Filipino lawyer Ms. Michelle Martinez of Whittlesea Community Services provided insights on recognizing coercive control and identifying patterns of abuse such as financial control, emotional manipulation, and social isolation. She emphasized the interconnected nature of these behaviors and the need for early intervention. Ms. Martinez also outlined available resources, including legal aid and counseling services, encouraging victims and community members to seek support and report suspected abuse.
An open forum followed, addressing participants’ questions about reporting processes, overcoming victim apprehension, and the role of bystanders in preventing abuse. Discussions also explored strategies to combat social isolation and strengthen community engagement through grassroots initiatives and digital platforms.
The event also included a brief discussion led by Mr. Graeme Lade on Australia’s cervical cancer awareness campaign, providing attendees with information on screenings and available support services.
The Philippine Consulate General remains steadfast in supporting comprehensive and effective responses to DV/FV cases through various means. This commitment aligns with the Philippines’ global advocacy for human rights and social welfare and promoting dignity and safety for all. END
