Gabriela Women’s Party strongly condemned and called for a thorough investigation into the reported physical abuse suffered by DJ Jellie Aw at the hands of her fiancé, Jam Ignacio.

“Justice for DJ Jellie must be swift, and systemic changes must be made to truly protect women from all forms of violence,” said Gabriela first nominee Sarah Elago.

Elago said that the incident highlights the alarming persistence of violence against women (VAW) despite existing laws.

“Hindi punching bag ang kababaihan. No woman should have to endure abuse, yet many continue to suffer in silence due to fear, stigma, victim-blaming, and the lack of effective support systems,” Elago stressed.

Elago also commended Aw’s bravery in speaking out by sharing evidence of her injuries and recounting the traumatic ordeal she endured.

“Her courage sheds light on the harsh realities many women face. Sa isang lipunang madalas ipinapataw ang sisi sa kababaihan, ang pagsasalita ni DJ Jellie ay isang matapang na paglaban sa kultura ng karahasan, pananahimik, at kawalang pananagutan,” she said.

“Hindi sapat ang mga umiiral na batas kung hindi naman ito epektibong naipatutupad. Kailangan ng konkretong aksyon upang tiyakin ang hustisya at suporta para sa mga biktima,” added Elago, a former representative of Kabataan party-list.

Elago also called for the full implementation of VAW-related laws, the expansion of safe spaces for victims, stiffer penalties for perpetrators—especially those in power—and increased funding for prevention programs and victim support services.