The Cebu provincial government will soon provide specialized mental health and trauma recovery services for women and children who are victims of abuse through a new shelter facility. In a statement posted on the Cebu Province Public Information Facebook page on Thursday, May 28, 2026, the province outlined plans to include psychological first aid, trauma processing, and specialized therapies in the proposed facility called "Balay ni Neneng."
Project Announcement
The project was discussed on Tuesday, May 26, during the second quarter meeting of the Provincial Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children, chaired by Governor Pamela Baricuatro. Provincial Health Office Chief Dr. Shiela Faciol presented the medical and mental health framework for the facility.
Services and Therapies
The framework includes provisions for access to psychiatric medication. For younger children, the province plans to introduce play and art therapy to support their emotional recovery. The province assured that there are already supplies of medicines for conditions related to mental illness, anxiety, and depression. However, coordination with psychologists is still being finalized.
Facility Features
The Women and Children in Crisis Intervention Center has begun installing smart houses within the Balay ni Neneng compound, according to Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office officer-in-charge Mary Rose Lopez. Each air-conditioned unit can accommodate eight to ten survivors and includes dining areas, a kitchen, and administrative offices.
Anti-Trafficking Efforts
Officials also announced plans to establish help desks and expand referral systems at major transport terminals across Cebu to strengthen efforts against human trafficking. According to the statement, the official launch date for Balay ni Neneng has not yet been announced.
