BUTUAN CITY — A new facility dedicated to protecting survivors of gender-based violence will soon rise in Barangay Antongalon, following a groundbreaking ceremony held on July 9. The City Government of Butuan is building the Women and Children Protection Center to serve as a residential care facility for women and children who have experienced abuse, gender-based violence, and human trafficking. Once completed, the center will offer temporary shelter, psychosocial support, and other recovery services to help survivors heal and rebuild their lives.
A Safe Haven for Survivors
The need for such a facility is critical. The City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) Office in Butuan receives at least 13 cases of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) every month. While child survivors are currently provided temporary care at the Lingap Center, there is no dedicated facility exclusively for women who are victims of violence. The new center aims to address this gap by offering a safe, supportive environment where survivors can receive the care they need.
More Than Just Shelter
Registered psychologist Loressa Joy D. Paguta emphasized that survivors require not just a place to stay, but a secure and nurturing environment to recover from trauma. The center is designed to provide comprehensive services, including counseling and psychosocial support, to help survivors regain their strength and dignity. The project reflects the local government's commitment to ensuring that women and children who experience abuse are treated with respect and provided with the support they need to move forward.
