DSWD-Cordillera Advocates for Anti-Violence Program in Government Agencies

Cordillera, Philippines – The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD-CAR) is actively advocating for the implementation of the Men Opposed to Violence Against Women and their Children Everywhere (MOVE) program across all government agencies, state universities, colleges, and local government units in the region. This initiative is part of a broader effort to contribute to the national gender and development agenda.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD-CAR Director, the push for the revival of MOVE organizations is under the Regional Gender and Development Council (RGADC). The MOVE program is an advocacy initiative focusing on gender and development and women’s empowerment, involving men who oppose violence in all forms. Quintilla noted that MOVE was initially introduced in the 1990s as a mandatory organization in government offices but gradually faded away. The DSWD is now working to reorganize and refocus on this initiative. The Sagada local government unit has already organized its MOVE, and the Philippine National Police and the Department of the Interior and Local Government-Cordillera are training personnel to become resource persons.

Quintilla emphasized the importance of involving men in gender equality and empowerment initiatives, as their involvement reduces the likelihood of violations and can inspire others to support the cause. The director also mentioned the timeliness of this revival, particularly in light of increased reports of gender-based violence in the Cordillera region this year. The Regional Development Council is being urged to approve the program’s adaptation, mandating its implementation across agencies in the region. The Police Regional Office-Cordillera’s Women and Children Protection Section reported 444 cases involving violence against women and their children from January to October.