Strengthening its commitment as the company for women, Avon launched the Speak Out Against Domestic Violence campaign in the Philippines. Avon Philippines President and General Manager, Bob Briddon, stressed this commitment to women in his welcome remarks during the well-attended media launch event at the Filipinas Heritage Library.

"Avon is committed to champion women’s causes. In our years of business in the Philippines, we have been known for our passionate support to the breast cancer cause. With women being close to our hearts, we understand their needs and struggles. And Avon is taking this passion further by launching the Speak Out Against Domestic Violence campaign", Mr. Briddon said.

This program aims to create awareness on the reality of domestic abuse, as well as raise funds through the sale of the Global Empowerment Necklace (P149) and the Avon Lotion (P165) for the month of March, proceeds from which will go towards the support of ongoing projects of local non-government organizations (NGOs) and ensure the activation of a hotline to allow women in abusive relationships to speak out.

Mr. Briddon added, "We realize that the best weapon of any woman against domestic violence is EMPOWERMENT. With all of you as partners, we will do this by helping them take the first step, the opportunity to speak out."

During the launch, Avon also announced television show host, actress and style icon Ruffa Gutierrez as the crusade's spokesperson locally.

Ms. Gutierrez said, "I am very happy that Avon is doing this program that is all about making that first step in breaking the cycle, speaking out. I've always considered it a privilege to be part of the Avon family as the Style Ambassador for the Avon Fashions Jewelry and Accessories line. Now, I feel even more proud that Avon Philippines has given me the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of women as their local spokesperson for the crusade against domestic violence."

Hosted by Boy Abunda and well attended by celebrities, public officials, NGO representatives, and civic leaders, the event included a forum featuring notable panelists who shared their insights and views on the domestic violence cause.

Respected public servant, women's rights advocate and panelist Sen. Pia Cayetano discussed the provisions and limitations of Republic Act 9262, also known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, including the definition of domestic violence and how the law can help prevent and address the critical issue. Renowned child psychologist Dr. Honey Carandang tackled the impact of domestic violence on the child's behavior at home and in school, as well as its long-term effects, including those that may cause them to act in an abusive manner towards their partners in the future.

Media personality Cito Beltran shared his views from a husband's perspective, encouraging men to love their wives and resolve issues with them in a non-violent manner. He also gave a meaningful message to "make men be part of the solution!".

Columnist and women's rights advocate, Rina Jimenez David, spoke about the programs already being done by local NGOs that aim to create further awareness on domestic violence and encourage women who are victims of such to do something about it.

A highlight of the event was the testimony of domestic violence survivor, Rose Rigos, who shared how she had finally broken her silence and walked out of an abusive relationship.

Other special guests included multi-awarded international artist Lea Salonga, respected actress Boots Anson Roa, Radio DJs Chico Garcia and Delamar of RX 93.1, former beauty titlist Abbygale Arenas De Leon and many others.

Join Avon in its mission to create awareness and raise funds to help non-profit organizations in the fight against domestic violence. NGOs are invited to apply for funding assistance in pursuance of this fight by sending their application together with their proposed hotline activation program. Speaking out is the first step to break the cycle of domestic violence. And if we put all our voices together, we can truly make a difference in the lives of women everywhere.