Bacolod City, Negros Occidental – In a significant move to combat gender-based sexual harassment (GBSH), Negros Occidental observed its first Safe Space Day on November 24, coinciding with the commencement of the annual Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), which will run from November 25 to December 12. This observance marks a critical step in the province's effort to implement the Safe Spaces Act more effectively at a local level.

According to Philippines News Agency, November 24 was designated as Safe Space Day in Negros Occidental under Provincial Ordinance 009-2023. This ordinance aligns with the broader goals of Republic Act 11313, known as the Safe Spaces Act. The act is comprehensive, encompassing all forms of gender-based sexual harassment occurring in public spaces, workplaces, educational institutions, and online.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, in a public statement, emphasized the importance of advocating for violence-free homes and communities. He expressed a commitment to making Negros Occidental a safe space for all, not just during the campaign period but consistently. Andrea Lizares-Si, the chair of the Provincial Council for Women (PCW), spearheaded the safe spaces pledge. This pledge saw the participation of Governor Lacson, city and municipal mayors, department heads from the Capitol, and advocates from various sectors, all vowing to make the province a safer space for its residents.

Participants in the event committed to several initiatives. These include educating themselves, local officials, government employees, and communities on the core provisions of the Safe Spaces Act and the provincial ordinance. There was also a pledge to implement mechanisms to prevent and address GBSH, to strengthen complaint desks, and to capacitate service providers in managing cases. Collaboration with other government agencies and organizations for programs, projects, and activities supporting the Safe Spaces Act's implementation was also emphasized.

A highlight of the program was the awarding of winners of the 'Liso Kabuhi Ko 2023.' This project, a home and community gardening initiative, was launched as a response to the Covid-19 pandemic by the PCW and the Provincial Board's Committee on Women, Children, and Family, chaired by 5th District Board Member Rita Gatuslao. The top winners were the Barangay Nagasi Kalipi Organization of La Carlota City in the community group category and Rosa Bayoneta and family of Barangay Ayungon, La Carlota City in the individual/family category. The organizers stressed the ongoing importance of the 'Liso Kabuhi Ko' initiative in addressing food security, a critical issue for Negrense women and families.