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 and other forms of abuses.

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/counselling services in 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 deep awareness of their legal rights/responsibilities and reporting their complaints to concerned authorities.

“It has always been a challenge for victims to report or file cases against their abusers because of fear as well as lack of knowledge and familiarity about the legal process. But we are here today 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 be providing mediation services for family disputes/conflicts and 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 that “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.”

For VAW concerns and complaints, you may walk-in in any of our DOJAC office nationwide or reach us at [email protected]; (02)8521-2930 or by sending a message to our official DOJ Action Center Facebook page.