**PRESS RELEASE | DOJAC Leads VAW Lecture Series in Northern Luzon**
In celebration of National Women's Month 2025 and driven by Secretary of Justice Jesus Crispin Remulla's strong commitment to eradicating violence against women (VAW), the Department of Justice Action Center (DOJAC) along with the National Prosecution Service (NPS) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD FO CAR) hosted the Justice in Action Lecture Series: Updates on VAW-Related Laws at the University of Baguio (UB) on March 6, 2025.
The event saw participation from 147 law students and 3 faculty members from UB, as well as 43 law students from Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) and 7 students from the University of the Cordilleras (UC).
Regional Prosecutor Christian Paul L. Ulpindo opened the program by warmly welcoming the attendees, special guests, lecturers, and partners.
Ms. Amelyn P. Cabrera, Assistant Regional Director for Operations at DSWD FO CAR and Chief of the Protective Service Division, delivered an inspiring keynote address, highlighting that VAW is a pervasive issue that requires a united front.
Undersecretary Margarita N. Gutierrez also encouraged everyone to take a stand against VAW and act as advocates for those silenced by fear. She emphasized that the purpose of the event is to foster a safer and just environment for all women.
Following this, Atty. Rubie Lorraine S. Bogya-Lictao, Associate Provincial Prosecutor of La Union, provided valuable insights on key legislation including the Board of Claims (RA 7309), the Rape Victim Assistance and Protection Act of 1998 (RA 8505), and other Special Penal Laws aimed at protecting women (RA 9262, RA 7877, and RA 11313), along with relevant case law.
Ms. Klarisa A. Natavio from DSWD Field Office CAR contributed by offering a detailed analysis of the procedures involved in handling VAW cases.
In closing, DOJAC Program Director Joan Carla V. Guevarra, represented by Atty. Augusto B. Cubias III, shared an audio/visual presentation showcasing DOJAC's recent partnership with DSWD in supporting clients from vulnerable communities, especially women needing social assistance.
As a key organizer of this initiative, DOJAC urged attendees to champion gender equality and proactively combat VAW.
Source@ Philippines news
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