As a culmination of its observance of the 18-Day Campaign To End Violence Against Women (VAW), the City Government of Isabela, under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, successfully conducted a two-day self-defense training titled “Rising with Strength: Self-Defense Training for Empowerment in the Fight to End VAW” from December 11-12.
The event, organized by the city’s Gender and Development (GAD) Unit, headed by City Information Officer Mendry-Ann Lim, had participants from Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) – Basilan.
The training, which took place over two days, was designed to equip participants with essential self-defense skills while also fostering awareness around gender sensitivity and the importance of standing up against violence. The event was attended by key figures, including Ruby Ann Yu, president of GSP-Basilan, and Sheila Pagarigan from the Local Council of Women, who shared inspirational messages.
Resource Speaker Jeanette Rojas, a GAD advocate, played a key role in the success of the event by delivering an engaging and informative talk on the importance of Gender Sensitive Training. Her session highlighted the significance of recognizing and addressing gender-based violence and how self-defense is not only a physical act but a vital component of empowering individuals, especially women and the youth, to protect themselves and challenge societal norms that perpetuate violence.
The training program was structured around four key sessions: Basics of Self-Defense, Physical Techniques – Foundation, Advanced Techniques and Real-Life Scenario Training. Local experts, including PCPL Kenneth Mark Lojera and PMSJ Jessel Ben Santua, provided hands-on instruction.
PCPL Lojera kicked off the training by introducing the basics of self-defense, using practical taekwondo moves that participants could easily apply in emergency situations. He also took the time to discuss the Violence Against Women and Children Act (RA 9262), emphasizing the legal protections available to victims of abuse. Lojera ensured that participants understood not only how to defend themselves but also the legal rights they are entitled to.
The following day, PCPL Lojera led a recap session where participants demonstrated the techniques they had learned. This interactive component gave the youths a chance to reinforce their skills and boost their confidence in real-world scenarios.
PMSJ Santua, a seasoned self-defense instructor, took the participants through more advanced techniques, including baton use for self-defense. PMSJ Santua also introduced self-defense kits, which were distributed to each participant at the end of the session, ensuring that they had the tools they needed to protect themselves should the need arise.
Meanwhile, Sheila Pagarigan from the Local Council of Women delivered an inspiring message about the importance of solidarity in the fight against gender-based violence. She encouraged the youth to use the skills and knowledge gained from the training to become active advocates for their own safety and the safety of others.
On behalf of Mayor Turabin-Hataman, PESO Manager Aradelria Belleng extended the local government’s full support for initiatives aimed at preventing violence against women and children. She expressed the mayor’s commitment to continuing efforts that promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in Isabela City.
On the other hand, president Ruby Ann Yu expressed heartfelt gratitude to the City Government of Isabela, Mayor Turabin-Hataman and CIO Lim, for selecting the GSP to participate in such an important initiative. Yu emphasized that the skills learned during the training would help the Girl Scouts to not only protect themselves but also spread awareness about gender sensitivity and the need to combat violence against women. “This event is not just about self-defense; it’s about creating a community where everyone can live without fear and with dignity,” Yu added.
The two-day event concluded on a high note, with participants feeling more empowered and equipped to stand up against violence. The City Government of Isabela, together with its partners, continues to champion the rights of women and children, working toward a future where everyone, regardless of gender, can live freely and safely. (Words by R. Natividad-Sarael, CIO/Photos by A. Puti, IsaTV)
