Network organized to protect abused kids

by Joseph B Zambrano

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet-- The Child Abuse Prevention and Intervention Network was recently formed here to support exploited children.

The project was conceptualized after sentiments had been expressed by various agencies and citizens regarding repetitive investigative process and handling of an abused child.

Professional child caregivers have observed this manner of investigation can be traumatizing to a child.

The Child and Family Service Philippines, Inc., has taken the initiative to spearhead creation of CAPIN and strengthen it with creation of a consultative body composed of all agencies involved in investigations, interviews, medico-legal examinations, filling of the case, to referring the child to care giving agencies.

Deliberations have been set in place and through the concerted efforts of all the collaborating agencies, the CAPIN has been refined and their respective expertise and services committed.

La Trinidad Mayor Greg Abalos Jr. said agencies have specific roles where it is clearly defined so there will be no overlapping or duplicating of task.

To avoid trauma to the abused child where recurring questions or interrogations are asked, the delineation of functions of agencies is made clear to all concerned agencies handling the case of the abused youngster, Abalos explained.

The CAPIN headed the La Trinidad Local Government, has for its members the municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, La Trinidad Police Office, Department of Education district office, Ligang Barangay, Benguet General Hospital, Commission on human Rights- CAR, Provincial Prosecutors Office, Regional Trial Court 9, Child and Family Service Phillippines and the Philippine Mental Health Association-Baguio-Benguet.