BACOLOD CITY — In recognition of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, community leaders and advocates across Negros Occidental and Bacolod City mobilized for the Blue Heart campaign, marking their commitment to combat human trafficking through various events on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the day began with assemblies at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon in Negros Occidental and the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC). Fifth District board member Rita Gatuslao, along with Provincial Council For Women chairperson Andrea Lizares-Si and Gender and Development action officer Marie June Castro, led a symbolic blue heart formation at the Capitol, underscoring the global drive to raise awareness against human trafficking.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, represented by Promotion and Information Section head Charina Magallanes-Tan, emphasized the critical role of vigilance and strategic partnerships in battling this issue. Lacson described human trafficking as a modern form of slavery and a severe violation of human rights, stressing the need for cooperation among local and international partners to prevent trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute offenders.
The events continued with a forum discussing the key aspects of the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022, as well as earlier legislation from 2012 and 2003. A panel also explored methods to address human trafficking effectively. Meanwhile, members of the Provincial Committee Against Trafficking, Child Pornography, and Violence Against Women and Children reaffirmed their dedication to these causes.
In Bacolod City, the campaign activities included an advocacy walk, a blue heart formation at the BCGC, and forums held at strategic locations such as the Bredco port and Bacolod-Silay Airport. These forums focused on bolstering commitment to the anti-trafficking movement.
This year's Blue Heart campaign, under the banner "Reach Every Victim of Trafficking, Leave No One Behind," seeks to heighten awareness of ongoing trafficking issues and calls for increased efforts from government, law enforcement, public services, and civil society to prevent trafficking, support victims, and end impunity. The national theme for this observance in the Philippines is "Iisang Nasyon, Iisang Aksyon. Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Tapusin ang Human Trafficking Ngayon! (One Nation, One Action. In New Philippines, End the Human Trafficking Now!)."