DOJ grants priority privilege to VAW victims

As the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) continues to intensify, the Department of Justice (DOJ), through the DOJ Action Center (DOJAC), has simultaneously launched a Priority Pass for women victims of violence, harassment, and other forms of abuse.

The Priority Passes, which will last until the end of the 18-Day Campaign on 12 December 2024, give VAW victims “top priority" in accessing legal assistance and counseling services at all DOJ Action Centers in the NCR, Regions I, III, V, VII, X, and XI.

This move aims to empower and encourage women to stand up against all forms of VAW with a deep awareness of their legal rights and responsibilities, as well as to report their complaints to the concerned authorities.

“It has always been a challenge for victims to report or file cases against their abusers because of fear, as well as a lack of knowledge and familiarity with the legal process. But we are here until the end of the campaign with a Priority Pass to remind victims that you are not alone; the DOJ is here to help you. Do not be afraid to fight for your rights," Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" C. Remulla told women.

Aside from rendering legal assistance, the DOJAC will also provide mediation services for family disputes and conflicts, as well as referral services to other government bodies such as the Philippine National Police (PNP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Public Attorney's Office (PAO), among others.

Undersecretary-in-Charge for DOJAC Margarita N. Gutierrez averred, “Access to justice that is not just convenient but fast is very important to us, especially for victims of VAW. We, in the Department of Justice, are one with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) in raising awareness for VAW and finding solutions to put an end to VAW.”