MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL– Governor Henry Oaminal stood with the people of Misamis Occidental, alongside honored guests including former Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Vice Governor Rowena L. Gutierrez, and Representatives Jason P. Almonte and Sancho Fernando Oaminal, to launch the province’s 18-day campaign to end violence against women and children.

“Today’s gathering is a testament to our unwavering commitment to ensuring that violence has no place in our province,” Governor Oaminal declared.

This year’s theme, “VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon Na ang Oras!” serves as a rallying cry, he emphasized, urging the community to take decisive action.

Aligned with the 5Ms vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and joyful Misamis Occidental, Governor Oaminal introduced the VAWC Free Campaign, known as GOV MOTABANG (Government Opposed to Violence – Misamis Occidental Tabang Alang sa Bata og Baye nga Giabusahan). This initiative empowers women through education, making helpline numbers readily available across schools and barangays. “We aim to deter abuse through quick assistance,” Oaminal noted.

Former Senator Panfilo M. Lacson commended the province for prioritizing women and youth, saying, “I salute Governor Oaminal and the leadership for valuing the welfare of women and youth.”

Lacson also shared his heartfelt support: “What warms my heart is seeing a shared vision focused on uplifting and protecting those closest to our hearts — especially women and youth, who can soften even the toughest hearts.”

The campaign also strengthens women’s economic independence through partnerships with agencies like DOLE, TESDA, DTI, and DOST, providing livelihood skills, proposal writing training, and funding for approved business proposals, paving the way for women’s empowerment.

Governor Oaminal highlighted the Asenso Misamis Occidental Refuge (AMOR), a dedicated shelter offering support and counseling to abused children. Currently, AMOR provides a safe haven for 19 young survivors, supplying educational funding through college and a trust fund to assist with community reintegration.

As the campaign begins, Governor Oaminal called upon the community to take an active stand, emphasizing, “Your voice matters, and your actions can create meaningful change.”

With support from law enforcement and community leaders, Misamis Occidental reaffirms its commitment to a violence-free province, honoring the voices of the vulnerable and building a safer future for all. (SN/PGMO)