The event featured Ms. Andrea “Ann” Angala, Founder of Break the Cycle PH and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, who delivered an inspiring talk titled “Pedal to Empower: A Journey from Trauma to Triumph.”

Drawing from her own journey as a survivor of domestic abuse, Angala shared how resilience, determination, and community support helped her overcome adversity. She spoke about the transformative role of cycling in her healing process and how it evolved into a platform for advocacy. Highlighting her work with Break the Cycle PH—a movement dedicated to women’s empowerment and social change—and the Bikers United Movement, which promotes sustainable transportation and safe cycling infrastructure, she inspired participants to turn challenges into opportunities for positive action.

The session offered PNOC employees valuable insights on the critical role of both individual and collective efforts in eliminating all forms of violence. Through Angala’s powerful testimony, participants were reminded that recovery is possible and that advocacy can transform personal pain into a force for change.

The 18-Day Campaign to End VAW, spearheaded by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), runs from November 25 to December 12, 2024. This annual initiative calls on all sectors of society to unite in building a VAW-free Philippines—a vision PNOC continues to support through its gender-responsive programs and advocacy initiatives.