Maine Mendoza becomes celebrity champion of the ‘Babaeng Biya (hero)’ campaign

To commemorate the third year of Safe and Fair’s “Babaeng Biya (Hero)” National Campaign: Realizing the Rights and Opportunities of Women Migrant Workers in the ASEAN Region, Maine Mendoza was launched as the newest “Babaeng Biya ( hero) Celebrity Champion “. . “

“I will always salute our Filipino migrant workers,” Maine said in a statement.

“I am grateful to be part of this initiative as it is something close to my heart, especially after having been exposed to many opportunities that helped me understand their situation. I look forward to raising awareness and educating more people on how we can create a culture of safety for our women here and abroad, “she added.

UN Women national project coordinator Charisse Jordan said the host of Eat Bulaga could certainly help empower Filipino women, especially those working abroad for their families.

“Women migrant workers are inherently empowered, and with the support of Maine, we hope to further spread this message to the entire community – it is time we give back to our babaeng biyaheros – who have given so much for their families and our country,” Jordan said. .

According to Jordan, “the current health crisis has clearly increased the risk of gender-based violence due to isolation, restricted mobility and lack of care.”

“With the closure, migrant workers, including those who remained in destination countries or were forced to return home, are trapped with abusive relatives, employers and perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence,” he added.

Jordan noted how “mobility restrictions have further reduced the ability of migrant workers to seek assistance and access essential services such as psychosocial support, financial assistance or alternative shelter.”

As part of the campaign, Babaeng Biya (hero) has launched a website, mobile app, helpline, and the upcoming “Can I help you?” Information kiosk at the main airports that will be launched next month.

“This initiative also launches the global campaign, 16 days of activism against gender violence, from November 25 to December 10 (Human Rights Day),” the statement read.

However, the Philippines will extend its campaign until December 12, when the government signs in 2000 the United Nations Optional Protocols against human trafficking and smuggling.

Safe and Fair is part of the Spotlight initiative of the European Union and the United Nations to eliminate violence against women and girls. In the Philippines, UN Women and the International Labor Organization jointly implement it. – Jannielyn Ann Bigtas / LA, GMA News