LGUs urged to strengthen protection for women, kids
The Department of Social Welfare and Development 6 is calling on government units (LGUs) in Western Visayas to strictly implement laws meant to protect women and children.
Assistant Regional Director Joel Galicia said it is the responsibility of the city and municipal mayors to make sure that protection of women and children are strongly enforced.
Galicia also said the municipal council may also enact ordinances in support of the national laws.
Some of these laws are Republic Act No. 9262 or Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004, Republic Act No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women and the Republic Act No. 7610 or Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.
The DSWD official lamented that some LGUs do not prioritize women and children in their agenda. Also, funds and budget shares from the annual internal revenue allotment intended for women and children are not utilized for their cause.
Galicia said the DSWD is coordinating with the Department of Interior and Local Government in monitoring LGUs that do not have any active and working programs to protect women and children from violence.
The DWSD, DILG and other government agencies are currently observing the 18-day campaign for the elimination of violence against women and children.
The campaign, which will end on December 12, seeks to raise awareness on the rights of women and children who are victims of violence, including physical abuse and rape.*PNA
