VAWC cases on the rise

CEBU, Philippines — An uptick in the cases of violence against women in Cebu City and the rest of Central Visayas has been noted by Police Regional Office-7.

Police Major Niño Lawrence Ibo of Police Regional Office-7 said they have noticed a continuing increase in cases relating to violence against women and children in the city. From 2016 up to the present, PRO-7 conducted 122 operations relating to Republic Act. 9262, or the Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) law, and arrested 81 persons and rescued 332 victims of trafficking and VAWC victims.

“Nagsige gyud siya og saka because daghan na sab ang empowered nga mosumbong. Kami sab we continue to partner with the DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) when they receive reports,” Ibo was quoted as saying in a dispatch from Cebu City Public Information Office.

On the other hand, the ratio of abused women in the country remained at 1:4 or one in every four women as disclosed by DSWD-7 Regional Director Shalaine Lucero. These women suffer violence either physical, verbal, or both.

“It is important nga makahibalo ta kung unsa ni sila nga mga kinds of violence so we can stop them during the early stages,” Lucero said.

During the early stages of violence, women may often feel afraid to report due to fear and threat of abandonment by the spouse or partner.

If no action is taken, the abuse may persist and may later cause grave threats to one’s life, Lucero said.

“That is why we are here, too.  And through this event, we may be able to inspire you to report or encourage you to stand for your rights. Kay kita man gyud ang maalaot kung wala ra ‘tay buhaton,” Lucero added.

In relation to this, the city government through the Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS), and the Inter-Agency Council vs Child Pornography organized a program, which is an 18-day celebration in the fight to end violence against women and children.

More than 300 representatives of government organizations and non-government organizations participated in the opening program recently held at the City Hall Executive Building Social Hall.

Speakers gave various talks to inform women of the importance of asserting their rights, especially during early signs of violence.

As to interventions, DSWS Focal Person Ananisa Aviso said their office offers different technical assistance for the victims, including psychological intervention.

DSWS also has a team that can provide specific psychological interventions for those coming from abusive relationships, for example.

“Kami sa DSWS naa ra gyud mi, kanunay mo tabang ninyo ug moabag ninyo labi na sa katong mga naka experience ug abuso,” Aviso said.

Aviso encouraged those listening to always feel empowered by the law, particularly the VAWC law.

“If you experience abuse, don’t be ashamed. Naa ra mi nagpaluyo ninyo.  Naa ang balaod para kaninyo,” said Aviso. (FREEMAN)