TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) — The US Agency for International Development (USAID) Philippines recently commended the collaborative efforts of various government agencies working to assist survivors of human trafficking in the Cagayan Valley region.
During a recent visit, USAID and the Partnership for Development Assistance Philippines, in collaboration with the Regional Inter-Agency Council for Anti-Trafficking (RIACAT), met with trafficking survivors currently housed at the Regional Haven for Women and Girls, a facility managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The survivors shared their stories of rescue and the support they received from the council members.
Also, the group visited the Reception and Study Center for Children, another DSWD facility that provides care for abandoned and surrendered children. Both facilities offer shelter, rehabilitation, and holistic care for women and children who have suffered abuse, including trafficking.
USAID Philippines Deputy Mission Director Rebekah Eubanks praised the efforts of DSWD and the RIACAT members, emphasizing the importance of aftercare programs in supporting survivors’ recovery and successful reintegration into society.
“It takes a village to help our survivors. That’s why I am grateful to see agencies providing comprehensive programs and services to combat trafficking,” Eubanks said.
During the visit, Ana (not her real name), a trafficking survivor under DSWD’s care, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the government agencies for their help.
“To everyone who has played a part in my journey… Thank you. Your work is not just changing lives, it’s saving us. Together, please continue to uplift survivors, empower us, and remind us that we are not defined by our past, but by the limitless future that lies ahead,” she said.
In response, members of the RIACAT reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing anti-trafficking efforts through stronger partnerships, policy improvements, and expanded support services for survivors in the Cagayan Valley region. (OTB/MFJ/PIA Region 2 with report from DSWD Region 2)
