DSWD, DOJ to launch referral system for compensation of child victims of violent crimes
PHOTO FROM PIXABAY
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Department of Justice (DOJ) are set to sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on Tuesday, July 15, to establish a referral system that will facilitate monetary compensation for child victims of violent crimes under the care of the DSWD’s Residential Care Facilities.
Under the agreement, DSWD will identify and refer eligible child victims to the DOJ’s Victim Compensation Program, which provides financial assistance to victims of violent crimes.
DOJ, through its Board of Claims, will process these claims and may also refer additional cases to DSWD that are outside the scope of Republic Act No. 7309 (An Act Creating a Board of Claims under the Department of Justice for Victims of Unjust Imprisonment or Detention and Victims of Violent Crimes).
DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said on Monday, July 14, that the partnership seeks to support the recovery and reintegration of child victim-survivors by providing financial aid for their treatment, legal needs, education, and basic necessities.
“Child victims of violent crimes often carry invisible scars that are very difficult to heal. One of the ways to show support for their recovery is by providing monetary compensation that can cover their various expenses for treatment, therapy, legal fees, education, and basic needs,” Dumlao said.
The initiative covers cases involving child victims of rape, torture, enforced and involuntary disappearance, human trafficking, and online sexual abuse and exploitation, among others.
Dumlao added that the MOA reflects the administration’s recognition of the need to provide immediate and long-term support for child victims of violence.