Fort San Pedro illuminated in orange to back campaign vs VAW

By Xander Ledesma

On November 30, Fort San Pedro, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Cebu City, was lit up in orange as part of the ongoing effort to raise awareness and support the fight against violence targeting women. The lighting ceremony took place in solidarity with the global movement aimed at eliminating gender-based violence and fostering a safer environment for women and girls.

Led by the Cebu City Government, the initiative sought to underscore the importance of the international “Orange the World” campaign, which is observed each year during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. This year’s campaign spans from November 25 to December 10, shining a light on the pervasive issue of violence against women and the necessity for united action to tackle it.

Portia Basmayor, who heads the Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS) in Cebu, stressed the importance of visibility in rallying support for such causes.

The orange illumination of Fort San Pedro serves as a prominent symbol of hope and advocacy, representing a community devoid of violence against women. The color orange is globally recognized as a symbol of a brighter future, where women can exist free from fear of violence, harassment, or discrimination.

Historical Context: The “16 Days of Activism” is a worldwide movement that started in 1991, coordinated by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership. It is commemorated annually to demand action against violence facing women and girls. This campaign holds particular importance in the Philippines, where women’s rights organizations and government bodies have long fought against high rates of domestic violence and various forms of gender-based abuse.

Originally built in the 17th century by Spanish conquerors, Fort San Pedro is a historical site that carries immense importance in Cebu’s rich cultural legacy. By illuminating it in orange, the landmark becomes a beacon of hope and a reminder of the need for collective efforts to safeguard women’s rights and work towards a more equitable society.

Local leaders have also urged other organizations, businesses, and individuals to engage in the campaign by donning orange and supporting measures aimed at preventing violence against women. The campaign is intended to persist throughout the 16-day period, with additional symbolic activities and events organized in various locations across Cebu City.

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