TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Barangay officials of Bado Dangwa received lectures on Republic Act 9262, or Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act, family planning and responsible parenthood, during the “Kalalakihang Tapat sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya” (KATROPA) or MENTAKO activity facilitated by the City Population Development Office (CPDO) on Sept. 6.
Social Welfare Officer Vilma Palma emphasized the role of barangay officials in safeguarding their communities and being at the forefront of rescue efforts when VAWC cases occur. However, she reminded the officials not to personally handle or resolve VAWC cases but to refer these to the Department of Social Welfare and Development VAWC desk for proper handling of the case.
While customary practices may be allowed by law in resolving certain disputes, Palma clarified that rape cases must not be addressed through customary law or by elders.
The lecture also covered family planning and responsible parenthood, with a focus on the role of men in the family.
Napoleon Ayang-ang, representing Mayor Darwin Estrañero, reiterated that men should protect and care for women, noting that violence against women and children is not only a crime but also unbecoming of a man to hurt women. He acknowledged that while women are often victims of violence, men can also be victims, with women as the perpetrators.
Ayang-ang also warned against the dangers of illegal drugs, urging the officials to monitor both the youth and elders in their community. He called on them to serve as good models in their barangay.
He further expressed the city mayor’s support for any programs of the barangay aimed at improving their community. By Rod Asurin
