CLAVERIA MSWDO CAPACITATES BARANGAY OFFICIALS ON ANTI-VAWC AND ONLINE EXPLOITATION

To bolster the capabilities of frontline service providers in handling sensitive abuse cases, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of LGU-Claveria conducted a comprehensive two-day training and workshop for local officials on December 22 and 23, 2025.

The event, titled "VAWC Desk Officers and Barangay Captains Training on OSAEC-CSAEM and RA 9262", gathered Barangay Captains and VAWC Desk Officers from across the municipality. The initiative aimed to strengthen the knowledge, skills, and coordination required to respond effectively to cases of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) and the growing threat of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC).

The first day of the seminar focused on establishing a strong legal foundation for the participants. PSSG Joy Q. Manalo led the session on Republic Act 9262, also known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act. This session provided local officials with a clearer understanding of the legal framework, the specific duties of duty-bearers, and the proper mechanisms for response.

Following the discussion on RA 9262,  Joanne G. Apolentisima, head of the MSWDO  facilitated a session on OSAEC and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM). This segment emphasized the nature of online sexual exploitation, how to spot indicators, and the critical role barangay officials play in prevention and reporting.

Moving beyond theoretical discussions, the second day focused on practical application. Participants engaged in "Case Pathway Mapping" to identify proper referral systems and response flows. The attendees were also divided into groups for "Case Management Assessment" activities, utilizing roleplays to test their decision-making and coordination skills in simulated scenarios.

The training also included an orientation on the Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law).

The two-day activity concluded with the formulation of concrete action plans to improve local responses to abuse cases. Participants also took part in a commitment-signing activity, reaffirming their dedication to upholding survivor-centered and child-sensitive approaches in their respective barangays.

According to the MSWDO's post-activity report, the training successfully enhanced the participants' understanding of case management and strengthened coordination between barangays and the LGU. This training was part of a broader effort by the municipality to support gender and development initiatives.