Cebu City, Philippines – In solidarity with the fight against gender-based violence, Zonta Club Cebu II participated in the Orange Walk: Lakaw Uban ni Inday on November 30, 2024. Organized by the Philippine Obstetrician and Gynecologist Society (Foundation) Inc. (POGS) Taskforce on Gender-Based Violence, the event is part of the 18 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
Dr. Zn Chona Tremedal of Zonta Club Cebu II, shed light on the club’s active involvement in this advocacy. “The walk is more than a symbolic gesture. It’s a call to action and a reminder that violence against women and children continues to be a serious issue in our society, even if it’s often hidden from view,” she said.
Creating Awareness and Sparking Conversations
The Orange Walk serves to bring gender-based violence out of the shadows. “In the Philippines, many victims remain silent, ashamed, or unaware of where to turn for help. Through this event, we’re showing there are organizations ready to stand with them and provide the support they need,” Zn Dr. Tremedal explained.
Zonta Club Cebu II’s advocacy aligns closely with the goals of the walk. The club actively promotes awareness while providing tangible support to victims, including livelihood programs that empower survivors to become independent and self-sufficient.
A Holistic Approach to Healing
As a physician and POGS member, Zn Dr. Tremedal highlighted the importance of addressing the emotional and spiritual dimensions of recovery. “Healing isn’t just about addressing physical injuries. Emotional wounds often run deeper, and true healing begins when a person feels seen, heard, and supported,” she said.
She also emphasized the role of healthcare professionals in identifying and assisting victims of violence. “Our work isn’t limited to medical treatment; it’s about acknowledging the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. This holistic approach is key to helping victims regain their sense of self and their will to move forward.”
A Handbook for VAW Desk Officers
In line with its advocacy, Zonta Club Cebu, together with. Atty Mylene Gonzales Esquivel, recently launched a handbook that will benefit the victims, while VAW Desk Officers are guided on the proper method of handling survivors in the immediate stage following the physical and emotional trauma. The handbook authored by Atty. Esquivel, is entitled “ Helping VAW Survivors: A Practical Guide for Violence Against Women Desk Officers”. It is easy to read, and can be used also by advocates, as well as the healthcare providers. The final chapter is especially meaningful, as it reminds us to care for ourselves while caring for others,” Zn Dr. Tremedal shared.
Empowering Through Action
Various organizations and institutions joined the early morning walk to support the 18 Days of Activism against VAW. Before the walk, there were also visits to local hospitals to evaluate the effectiveness of Women and Children Protection Desks. These desks play a crucial role in providing immediate assistance and ensuring victims know they are not alone.
“By engaging in these efforts, we’re not just spreading awareness; we’re building systems of support and empowering communities to take action against abuse,” Zn Dr. Tremedal noted.
Walking Toward a Brighter Future
Zonta Club Cebu II’s participation in the Orange Walk proves the organization’s commitment to ending gender-based violence. “This is not just about raising awareness for 18 days; it’s about embedding this advocacy into our daily lives and ensuring no one feels invisible or unheard,” Zn Dr. Tremedal said.
Through events such as participation in the Orange Walk and its ongoing projects, Zonta Club Cebu II continues to support victims of gender-based violence, proving that collective action can create meaningful change.
Zn Dr. Elsa Basubas, Abay sa Kahayag chairperson, said Zonta Club Cebu II’s various activities in observance of the 18 Days of Activism Against VAW help inform the community so they can be proactive on this concern. The organization has initiated Women, Gender, and Family Studies Center in public libraries to spread awareness of women’s and children’s rights.
Aside from these efforts, Zonta Club Cebu II has also initiated a reading program called the Alimbukad Basa Pamilya Project in selected public schools in Cebu, Zn Basubas said. This project encourages a love of reading through parent-child involvement, providing free, age-appropriate books to participating families.
