TWO significant Philippine laws are at the forefront of women empowerment in the country.

Republic Act 9710, or the Magna Carta for Women, was enacted to recognize, protect and uphold the rights of women and address issues of discrimination. RA 9262, on the other hand, classifies violence against women and children (VAWC) as a public crime.

It penalizes all forms of abuse and violence within the family and intimate relationships, and is hailed as one of the most protective laws for women and children in the Philippines.

One of the provisions of RA 9710 is the creation of a Violence Against Women (VAW) Desk in every barangay where women and children who experience physical, psychological and sexual abuse can go to seek assistance and flee from the violence inflicted on them.

Armed with the spirit and intent of these laws, Zonta Clubs of Cebu 1 and 2 use RA 9710 and RA 9262 as the launching pad of its programs to help and protect Cebu’s women and children.

In particular, the Zonta Club of Cebu 2 works with LGU’s to update barangay officials on the issue to inspire them to proactively respond to the problem of VAW in their communities.

Through seminars and workshops attended by Barangay VAW Desk officers, PNP Women’s Desk personnel, guidance counselors and LGU officials, the Zonta Club of Cebu 2 enables barangay officials to themselves become advocates for women’s rights and gender equality.