The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on the local government units (LGUs) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) to pursue aggressive steps to fully equip the Barangay Violence Against Women (VAW) desks to their optimum capacity as protection for women and children against all forms of violent acts.

In a statement, the DILG-CAR noted that the VAW desks are crucial in providing support, assistance, and protection to women who are victims of violence in their respective barangays (villages).

“The issue of violence against women and their children is a matter of great significance that necessitates immediate and efficient action. The Barangay VAW desks play a crucial role in the management of cases, conducting thorough investigations, and offering essential support to individuals who have experienced violence,” DILG CAR Director Araceli San Jose, Regional stressed.

The DILG has publicly enhanced the capabilities of the LGUs in safeguarding women's rights and addressing gender-based violence by placing significant emphasis on functionality.

San Jose underscored the importance of making sure the VAW desks are fully equipped and operational to handle cases of violence against women effectively. 

This includes providing adequate resources, training, and support to the personnel manning at the desks.

“By ensuring the functionality of Barangay VAW desks, LGUs can play a significant role in preventing and addressing gender-based violence at the local level. It reflects the commitment of the government to protect women's rights, promote gender equality, and create safer communities for all citizens,” she added.

The Punong Barangay (village chief) has to issue an executive order to establish or reorganize the VAW desk within the first 100 days upon assumption office.

Further, the DILG reminded the barangays to enact an ordinance or, if already in existence, review and revise the ordinance to provide assistance for the establishment and continuous operations of VAW desk.

San Jose emphasized the importance of ensuring the integration of the barangay's gender-responsive programs, projects and activities in the Barangay Gender and Development Plan and Budget, Barangay Development Plan, and Annual Investment Program.

The Punong Barangay shall also designate a VAW desk officer who is trained in gender-sensitive handling of cases, preferably, female Sangguniang Barangay (SB) member or a female barangay tanod.

In situations where there are no female members of the Sangguniang Barangay (SB) or barangay tanod, the punong barangay has the authority to designate community volunteers, as long as they possess the necessary qualities of a VAW desk officer in accordance with the Barangay VAW Desk Handbook.