There are many victims of domestic violence in the Philippines, but not everyone has the courage to speak out against it. In an effort to raise awareness to the issue, Avon held the "Speak Out Against Domestic Violence" public service ad competition, which encouraged students from various universities as well as young and independent professionals to submit print and TV ads that fearlessly broke the spiral of silence on domestic abuse.

Local campaign ambassador and celebrity Ruffa Gutierrez herself was adamant on speaking out against family abuse and admirably said, "I would always be here to help this advocacy because it's closest to my heart, and you know, hopefully one day, issues on domestic violence will not be spoken in hushed tones, but will be, you know, screamed and spoken out for the world to hear."

Avon recently showcased the said ads from their list of finalists at the Power Plant Mall in Makati. Team Tiwala, composed of Bien-Bien Tan, Bibien Tan, Leslie Bayona, Sarah Buyco, and Trina Khio, from Ateneo de Manila University was awarded grand champion that evening for their thought-provoking ad with the caption, "Make-up covers blemishes. Not abuse."

For the complete list of winners and their works, check out the gallery below:

(Photos courtesy of Avon)