ILOILO CITY—The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) launched a project to empower women who have been victims of abuse or exploitation.
“A woman is unstoppable when she realizes that she deserves better,” said IPPO Director Col. Gilbert Gorero during the launch of the project called “Babaye Bangon.”
The IPPO partnered with the local government unit (LGU) of Bingawan town led by Mayor Mark Palabrica and Bingawan police led by Lt. Rene Mercado in the project specifically for survivors of violence against women (VAW).
The project is meant to bolster the IPPO's focus on the protection and empowerment of women.
Gorero said the project, which will be replicated in other towns of Iloilo province, is an avenue for women to heal and regain their self-worth while making them more productive.
The project in Bingawan initially started with a livelihood project in making rugs, which can be sold to nearby communities or even neighboring towns of Bingawan. It will also be an extra income for women who are facing added socio-economic problems due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“We are optimistic that we can pursue more productive undertakings towards the realization of our vision. We want to see Ilonggo women hurdle their difficult situations. We want to see empowered Ilonggo women,” added Gorero.