'Bantay Abuso' put up in 12 pilot villages in Iloilo City
The local government unit here established "Bantay Abuso" projects in 12 pilot barangays to help women and children who have fallen victims to violence.
This was revealed by retired city population officer Mary Edurese, who prior to retirement last year, helped facilitate the said project together with the Committee on Women and Family Relations of the city council.
The "Bantay Abuso" project is managed by personnel from the local population office.
"Finally there's a project, in which an office will look after abused women and children, and help them achieve a better way of life," Edurese said.
Each of the villages allocated funds in order to establish the project under the Gender and Development (GAD) program.
The city government apportioned PhP600,000 last year for GAD.
Edurese said the pilot barangays can allot their own amount, depending on their needs.
"We have guided barangay officials on how to pass a resolution setting up a GAD project for women in their area," she stated.
The city population office also reactivated GAD focal persons who will look after the program implementation in their respective areas.
For her dedication to the job, Edurese has been chosen as one of this city's outstanding women for 2008, an award conferred by the Committee on Women and Family Relations, chaired by city councillor Julienne Baronda.
She was cited for her notable role in government service, particularly in ensuring programs and projects for women and children of this city. (PNA)