DILG to Cordi LGUs: Ensure functionality of barangay VAW desks

BAGUIO CITY—The Dept. of the Interior and Local Government Cordillera is urged local government units to take proactive steps to ensure Barangay Violence Against Women (VAW) desks are fully equipped and operational to address cases of violence against women and children.
    The DILG said these desks were crucial in providing support, assistance, and protection to women who are victims of violence in their respective barangays (villages).
    “The issue of violence against women and their children is a matter of great significance that necessitates immediate and efficient action. The Barangay VAW desks play a crucial role in the management of cases, conducting thorough investigations, and offering essential support to individuals who have experienced violence,” said Araceli San Jose, regional director of DILG Cordillera.
    She said the Department aims to enhance capabilities of LGUs in safeguarding women's rights and addressing gender-based violence by placing significant emphasis on functionality.
    San Jose cited importance of making sure these VAW desks were fully equipped and operational to handle cases of violence against women effectively.

This included providing adequate resources, training, and support to the personnel manning at the desks.

“By ensuring the functionality of Barangay VAW desks, LGUs can play a significant role in preventing and addressing gender-based violence at the local level. It reflects the commitment of the government to protect women's rights, promote gender equality, and create safer communities for all citizens,” she said.

The punong barangay has to issue an executive order to establish or reorganize the VAW Desk within the first 100 days upon assumption of office.

Barangays were told to enact an ordinance or, if already in existence, review and revise the ordinance to provide assistance for the establishment and continuous operations of VAW Desk.

San Jose cited importance of ensuring integration of barangay gender-responsive programs, projects and activities set in barangay gender and development plan and budget, barangay development plan and annual investment program.

The punong barangay shall also designate a VAW Desk officer who is trained in gender-sensitive handling of cases, preferably, female Sangguniang Barangay member or female barangay tanod.

In situations where there are no female members of the Sangguniang Barangay or barangay tanod, the Punong Barangay has authority to designate community volunteers, as long as they possess necessary qualities of a VAW Desk officer in accordance with the Barangay VAW Desk handbook. -- PMTG/DILG CAR