TABUK CITY, Kalinga – At least 46 children were exposed to physical, economic, emotions and sexual abuse in 2023, according to report from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
Azraa Leigh Accad, Social Welfare Officer II, presented the situation of abused children and minors during the workshop in crafting of the Comprehensive Barangay Juvenile Intervention Program (CBJIP) today at M Hotel.
In her presentation, the 16 cases of economic, physical and emotional violence were reported from barangays San Julian, Dagupan Centro, Bagumbayan, Laya East and Malin-awa with one case each; followed by barangays Dilag and Magsaysay with two cases each; three cases from Brgy. Agbannawag; and four cases from Brgy. Bulanao.
The CSWDO recorded 30 incidences of sexual abuse with Brgy. Bulanao having the most number at 7 and Brgy. Nambaran with three.
According to Accad, the CSWDO has also provided assistance to exploited children who have come from other places, such as the municipalities of Pinukpuk and Pasil, as well as the provinces of Oriental Mindoro, Cagayan, and Mount Province.
Based on the answers of the children throughout the interview and counseling sessions, she observed that the offenders are typically family members such as the father, uncle, brother, and neighbours.
In order to assist these kids in overcoming their trauma, the CSWD provided them with a range of services, including case conferences, counseling, home and school visits, financial and medical support, temporary housing, and support during court proceedings.
Agnes Bagsalay, Social Welfare Officer II, claims that these services will help the kids improve their social skills.
Children are among the most vulnerable groups in society and are therefore susceptible to abuse in any form, as the CSWD reminds us.
The society and family ought to take care of them and provide them the attention, safety, and care they require. By Darwin S. Serion