Be Fit to Fight VAW: Session on Self-Defense

Participants of the “Be Fit to Fight VAW: Session on Self-Defense” warm up before the self-defense and martial arts live demonstration. Delegates from the Victorino Mapa High School, Philippine Normal University (PNU), Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), Universidad de Manila (UMD), and the Optical Media Board (OMB) arrived as early as 6:30am for the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW kick-off activity.
PCW Executive Director Emmeline Verzosa pushes high school and college students, government employees and other participants to learn more about self-protection from all forms of violence. She also enjoins everyone to take part in the Campaign and uphold the theme “Magna Carta ni PiNay, Gawing Tunay! Karahasan sa Kababaihan, Wakasan!” Secretary Sonny Coloma reads his commitment of support to stop VAW. His pledge says, “I will lead my organization in heightening awareness and intensifying social mobilization in support of this cause.” PCW Executive Director Emmeline Verzosa (left) hands the token of appreciation to Philippines Against Child Trafficking National Coordinator Sally Ujano (right) who discussed some signs of an abusive partner in the “Usapang VAW sa Kabataang Pinay” session.
Members of the Bakbakan International show the various ways of disarming an attacker carrying a knife. PCW Executive Director Emmeline Verzosa (right) poses with ABS-CBN Reporter Ms. Gretchen Malalad (2nd from right), Optical Media Board (OMB) Chairperson Ronnie Ricketts (3rd from right) and members of the Bakbakan International. Ricketts, Malalad and Bakbakan International members taught participants (mostly females) of the kick-off activity some martial arts techniques to use against an attacker. The all women Arnis team of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Special Services Division demonstrates Arnis basics to the participants. Several high school and college students pledged to take part in the campaign to end violence against women (VAW).