This Valentine's Day, PCW advocates self-love, setting boundaries for flourishing partnerships.
How many times have you set aside things that may hurt or degrade you in the name of "love"?
That love inside you may be so pure that you feel compelled to sacrifice not just many things but also a significant part of yourself.
However, if it is already altering your values and taking away your aspirations, can you honestly still call it "love"?
Perhaps there were times when you felt insecure or frustrated about the love you deserve, pushing you to unconditionally exert all you've got and leading you to give more and more from an almost empty cup.
However, as love beautifully abounds through the magic of fulfillment and satisfaction, it still should not overshadow the power of freedom, independence, and self-respect as suggested by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW).
On this special day dedicated to love and those who cherish it, PCW reminds women to empower themselves by fostering "self-love," a principle upon which the treatment of their partners should be based.
"By nurturing their self-love, self-worth, and self-esteem, women can navigate romantic relationships with confidence, resilience, and authenticity, ensuring that they can draw the line when they are disrespected, degraded, devalued, or abused," adds PCW.
Tips for single ladies
It is noted that women who have not yet found love prioritize their well-being.
PCW emphasizes the necessity of self-care and caution when choosing a partner, urging individuals to observe how their potential partner treats them and others.
"Never ignore red flags or tolerate behavior that undermines your self-worth," advises PCW.
'Controlling' partner
The Inter-Agency Council on Violence Against Women and their Children (IACVAWC) identifies 'controlling behavior' as a sign of a potentially unhealthy relationship.
'Green flags?'
Moreover, IACVAWC warns that initial positive qualities in a partner may eventually transform into negative traits or behaviors due to various influences.
'Abusive' relationships
In light of abuses in some relationships, PCW emphasizes that there is no excuse for such behavior, and assures women of their right to feel safe, respected, and unconditionally loved.
Under the Republic Act 9262, also known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act, PCW outlines various forms of violence against women (VAW), including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse.
PCW acknowledges different reasons why some women may not recognize such 'red flags,' but reiterates that they are not defined by the abuse they endure.
PCW emphasizes the need for women to embrace their strength and resilience 'to break free from the chains of an unhealthy relationship.'
Lastly, the national commission notes that a healthy relationship should not define one's happiness but rather complement it.
