US envoy lauds DSWD centers

CEBU, Philippines - The United States ambassador to the Philippines encouraged efforts to help human trafficking victims during his visit to the Department of Social Welfare and Development-7 centers for women and children.

Harry K. Thomas, Jr. recently visited the DSWD’s Home for Girls and Haven for Children, that serve as temporary shelters to women and children who are under difficult circumstances including being victimized by human traffickers.

Escorted by DSWD regional director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre, Thomas got a tour and a briefing of the programs and services of the two facilities and learned about the contributions of the US Peace Corps Volunteers from center heads Artemia Degamo and Aileen Cuevas.

The ambassador, whose mother is also a social worker by profession, praised the center that helps rescue women from various trafficking situation so they may slowly reenter their communities.

“I am impressed by the efforts done by the different government and private agencies including non-government organizations in curbing human trafficking and hope that Central Visayas will serve as a role model for the entire country to follow,” he said.

The ambassador was also impressed by the testimony given by one of the Peace Corps Volunteers assigned to the Home for Girls who shared her experiences.

Macapobre said that the Philippine government and the US share a common commitment to protect and promote respect for human rights and address the injustices of trafficking in persons.

Thomas’ visit helped strengthen the partnership between volunteers of the US Peace Corps, the DSWD and networks of organizations such as the International Justice Mission who strive to meet the special needs of human trafficking victims with funding from the US government. – THE FREEMAN