UN Resident Coordinator's Remarks at the Building a Violence-Free ASEAN”: National Consultation for the Regional Plan of Action on EVAW and EVAC

I'd like to start by sincerely thanking the Philippine Commission on Women and the Council for the Welfare of Children for convening this vital national consultation and for including the UN system. 

And let me give special recognition to Dr. Amaryllis Torres and Professor Elizabeth Aguiling-Pangalangan — the Philippine representatives to the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children.

Your leadership makes this possible — and meaningful.

I understand that this process is not just a technical review. It is part of a larger regional movement — one that aims to make ASEAN a region where women and children are safe, heard, and empowered.

As the end-term review of the 2016–2025 ASEAN Regional Plan of Action unfolds, your voices here in the Philippines will help shape the new plan for 2026–2035. A plan that we hope to be bold, inclusive, and ready to respond to evolving risks — from online exploitation to climate-linked displacement.

We know progress has been made:

• The launch of the National Action Plan to End Violence Against Women (2025–2030)
• Continued improvements in the VAW referral pathways and GBV services
• Stronger child protection systems and new laws against online sexual exploitation

But let’s also be honest:

• Data gaps remain
• Harmful gender norms persist
• Marginalized groups still face barriers to access justice and services

And violence — in all its forms — continues to rob too many women and children of their dignity and future.

That’s why this consultation is so critical. It is an opportunity to make sure the next ASEAN Plan of Action reflects the real challenges faced by survivors, and the realities on the ground.

Let’s make sure that this dialogue includes all voices — especially civil society organizations, local governments, community workers, youth leaders, and the survivors themselves.

And also let’s make sure we co-create policies that are intersectional, survivor-centered, and grounded in lived experience.

Let me also commend the Philippines — again — for its regional leadership. Your efforts continue to serve as a model across ASEAN and the broader Asia-Pacific region.

From championing data-driven policymaking to strengthening multi-stakeholder engagement, the Philippines continues to show that real change is possible.

The United Nations Country Team is proud to stand with you.

We reaffirm our full support to the Government of the Philippines, PCW, CWC, and all partners in this process.

UN Women, UNICEF, and UNFPA, together with the broader UN family, are committed to translating the outcomes of this consultation into action — in policy, in practice, and in new partnership.

This work is essential not just for gender equality — but for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

Because building a future free from violence is not just an aspiration.
It’s a responsibility.

And it starts — right here — with us.

Thank you.