For the longest time, domestic violence against women has been a serious, sensitive issue kept under wraps, treated as a skeleton in the family closet and a shameful secret that’s never to be talked about.

Globally, 1 out of 3 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime; here in the Philippines, there are 10,482 recorded cases of domestic violence in 2009, and there are 29 women who fall victim to it in a day. The figures speak loudly but the victims don’t and for many reasons. There’s the accompanying stigma, the prejudices, the fault-finding and the fear that survivors would have to face once they begin talking. But talk is exactly what they need to do to stop the vicious cycle of violence in the home.

Last year, we launched the program that would help women take that first major step. The Speak Out Against Domestic Violence campaign began raising awareness and funds to support the Women’s Crisis Center and its hotline activation program, which currently receives 400 calls per month. 2010 marks the continuation of our efforts to bring aid and to lend a voice to those who cannot speak out.

Hosted by television and film actress and local campaign ambassador Ruffa Gutierrez, and attended by prominent supporters, media, beneficiaries, and survivors, this year’s Speak Out Against Domestic Violence launch was a celebration of the growing number of women who have chosen to free themselves from a life of abuse.

The event which was held at the Ayala Museum was highlighted by stirring monologues of Survivor Stories, skillfully performed by theater veterans Madelaine, Stella Cañete and Irma Adlawan. By bravely sharing their experiences, survivors Naty, Maria, and Aga hoped their stories would inspire more Filipinas to finally break away from the very thing that chains them.

Our Head of Corporate Communications for Asia Pacific, Louie Migne shared that the Speak Out campaign underlines the company’s commitment in ensuring the improved health, independence and security of women. “Avon is the company for women and it is only natural for us to advocate causes that affect them and take on issues that undermine their welfare.”

She further stressed that, “Domestic violence is a key concern that needs everyone’s immediate attention. We realize that a woman’s greatest weapon is Empowerment knowing one’s rights, seeking help, speaking out against abuse the very same message the campaign carries. ”

The success of the advocacy program has allowed our company to add 3 more non-profit organizations as beneficiaries of the campaign. Aside from the Women’s Crisis Center (Manila), we turned over checks to G-Wave (Dumaguete), IMA Foundation (Pampanga) and LUNA (Davao) during the launch.

As associates, we are inviting you to join in the company's mission to create awareness and raise funds for these non-profit organizations and their programs and services that help stop domestic violence. By purchasing either of the two fundraising products, the Speak Out Against Domestic Violence T-shirt (P159) or Avon Skin So Soft Intensive Whitening Hand and Body Lotion (P350), you will be adding your voice to those already championing the cause. Both products are available the whole month of June.