COTABATO CITY (PIA) — Desk officers from different areas of the Bangsamoro region have recently trained on responding to violence against women, enhancing their knowledge and skills as first responders in the barangay level.
Participants in the Bangsamoro Women Commission’s (BWC)-led training included desk officers addressing violence against women (VAW) from Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, the Special Geographic Area, and Cotabato City.
“In our fight against gender-based violence, you are the first responders, the lifeline for survivors, and a beacon of hope in your communities… When people like you at the barangay level are empowered and supported, you become catalysts of change,” Hadja Bainon Karon, BWC chairperson, told the participants.
According to the BWC, the training includes not only protocols and frameworks but also emphasizes educational topics that would empower and support VAW desk officers.
Specifically, Karon said the learning focused on equipping frontliners with legal knowledge, trauma-informed practices, and survivor-centered approaches essential in protecting women and children from violence.
Moreover, the official stated that the discussion also covered significant points concerning RA 9262 and RA 9710, the operations of VAW desks, the protocols of the Philippine National Police-Women and Children Protection Desk (PNP-WCPD), case documentation, and referral pathways for Child Protection-Gender-Based Violence (CP-GBV).
Participants were also provided workshops designed to enhance their practical skills regarding issues related to gender violence.
Meanwhile, Police Corporal Evangeline Ponce, who serves as the women and children protection desk officer in South Upi, emphasized the significant contributions of women in the fight against gender-based violence.
“Let us stand together to create a world where every woman can thrive, where her voice is heard, and where women’s potential is fully realized,” Ponce conveyed.
Following this event, the Bangsamoro Government, through the BWC, has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that every VAW Desk in BARMM functions as a safe space for those in need, especially for women and children. (With reports from Bangsamoro Government)
