MANILA, Dec. 1 -- The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday reiterated its commitment to protect the rights and welfare of women across its sector.

The DND made the commitment in observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), which is being held from Nov. 25 to Dec. 12.

During the flag-raising ceremony at the DND grounds at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Defense Senior Undersecretary Irineo Espino emphasized their continuing commitment to mainstreaming gender equality and strengthening institutional mechanisms for women's protection.

"Our collective actions bring us closer to a VAW-free DND and a VAW-free Philippines. Let us remain guided by our duty to end violence against women," Espino, who chairs th...