The National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP), through the Research and Special Studies Division (RSSD), launched the Essay Writing Contest in observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) in the Philippines with the theme: “Securing Women’s Rights at Home Amidst COVID-19.” The contest provided an opportunity for senior high school students to discuss VAW through their written works. Participants shared their views on how to address the prevalence of VAW cases against the backdrop of the pandemic.

Thirty-six (36) senior high school students in seventeen (17) provinces across the country participated in the contest.

The first prize was awarded to Mr Harvey Sabado from Mary the Queen College, Pampanga – Incorporated. His essay, “KKB: Karapatan at Kalayaan ng Kababaihan, Ipaglaban at Protektahan,” stresses the need to utilize social media in raising public awareness about VAW while strengthening the enforcement of existing laws throughout the country.

Ms Mikylla Joyce Cabello from Thy Covenant Montessori School received the second prize. Her essay looks at the pandemic-induced struggles faced by women in the country. These struggles, according to Cabello, are exacerbated by the socio-economic circumstances some families are in, leading to unprecedented cases of violence against women. Her essay challenges readers to break the cycle of abuse by enlightening the public on the social impact of violence.

Ms Dinalyn Andal from Rosario National High School received the third prize. Her essay, “Silhouette Dreams,” compares a woman’s life to that of a silhouette that has been living in the dark most of the time. This situation is further aggravated by the pandemic, restricting the movement of the public especially the vulnerable. Andal emphasizes the role of schools in educating the youth, being the future movers and shakers of the country, about VAW.

NDCP hopes that the contest will inspire more people, especially in the youth sector, to take part in the fight against all forms of violence against women and children in the country.