Mayor Along launches anti-sexual harassment desk, hotline in Caloocan
Caloocan City Mayor Dale Gonzalo "Along" Malapitan officially launched the Anti-Sexual Harassment (ASH) desk and hotline in the city on Friday, March 31.
The AHS was launched in line with the Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in April. It aims to provide an immediate response to residents who experience sexual abuse, violence, and exploitation.
"Walang puwang sa Caloocan ang pang-aabuso at pambabastos kaya sinikap namin na maglunsad ng Anti-Sexual Harassment Hotline at Desk sa pangunguna ng Gender and Development Resource and Coordinating Office (GADRCO) (There is no room for abuse and profanity in Caloocan, so we launched the Anti-Sexual Harassment Hotline and Desk led by GADRCO)," Malapitan said.
The mayor said that the opening of the ASH desk and hotline is an ideal way to conclude Women’s Month in March and kick off SAAM this April. He also shared the ASH's hotline, email address, and the designated desk for assistance.
Malapitan said victims of any sexual assault can also dial 0956-88-43210 or email [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]).
The victims can also go to Caloocan-GADRCO to report concerns related to sexual aggression.
The city's GADRCO is located on the 8th floor of Caloocan City Hall- South. It is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., every Monday to Friday.
Meanwhile, Jan Christine Bagtas, GADRCO officer-in-charge, addressed the public and encouraged them to seek assistance whenever necessary.
"Sa ating mga kababayan, may kakampi po kayo sa Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Caloocan. Huwag po kayong matatakot na magsumbong o magdalawang isip na humingi ng tulong, bukas po ang ating tanggapan upang gabayan kayo sa mga nararapat na aksyon (To our locals, the city government is your ally. Do not be afraid to report or hesitate to ask for help, our office is open to guide you for appropriate actions)," Bagtas stated.