Koronadal City, South Cotabato – The provincial government of South Cotabato is intensifying its efforts to build strong, peaceful, and nurturing communities for families by strengthening programs that promote women’s empowerment and protect their rights.
According to Provincial Population Officer Melanie C. Chiva, the province continues to work toward becoming a place where families can live in a safe, stable, and supportive environment. The initiative is part of a broader campaign that highlights the important role women play in building healthy homes and communities.
“This initiative is aimed at ensuring that families in South Cotabato experience a secure and harmonious environment where the dignity and rights of every member especially women are protected,” Chiva said.
Chiva said the Provincial Population Office envisions South Cotabato as a province where families thrive in an atmosphere of peace, respect, and equality. She emphasized that empowering women is one of the key factors in achieving this goal.
The program forms part of the province’s activities in line with the annual celebration of National Women’s Month, which is observed every March across the country.
The celebration highlights the vital contributions of women in society and promotes gender equality through various government and community led initiatives.
As part of its strategy, the Provincial Population Office has been conducting education and awareness campaigns targeting 150 tricycle drivers for anti bastos law.
The office believes that building peaceful and stable families requires cooperation and understanding among all members of society.
“By providing seminars, discussions, and community outreach programs, the office aims to raise awareness about gender sensitivity, respectful relationships, and the importance of protecting women from discrimination and abuse,” Chiva said.
Chiva explained that educating communities about women’s rights encourages mutual respect within households and helps prevent violence and harassment.
“When women are empowered and supported, families become stronger. Empowered women contribute to creating homes that are peaceful, respectful, and nurturing,” she said.
A major focus of the campaign is the enforcement and promotion of Republic Act No. 11313, commonly known as the “Bawal Bastos Law.”
The law penalizes gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces, workplaces, educational institutions, and online platforms. It seeks to protect individuals particularly women from unwanted remarks, gestures, and actions that undermine their dignity.
Chiva stressed that the campaign is meant to remind the public that inappropriate comments, catcalling, or degrading statements directed at women have no place in society.
“There is no room for remarks or so-called compliments that disrespect or diminish the dignity of women. This is especially important for individuals who hold positions of authority, as they are expected to set an example in promoting respect and professionalism,” she stressed.
The campaign is also aligned with the priorities of the administration of Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., which continues to implement programs aimed at protecting women’s rights and strengthening family welfare in the province.
Under the provincial government’s initiatives, various departments and partner organizations are working together to promote gender equality, provide support services for women, and ensure that laws protecting women are properly implemented.
Chiva expressed optimism that the continued cooperation between the provincial government, community leaders, and residents will help achieve the shared vision of a province where women feel safe, respected, and empowered.
Through sustained education campaigns, stronger enforcement of laws protecting women, and active community participation, South Cotabato aims to create an environment where every family can live peacefully and with dignity.
