A high-ranking official from the Protective Services Bureau (PSB) at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has issued a strong public appeal for compliance with Republic Act No. 9262, commonly known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Act. The call emphasizes the critical need to promptly report any violations of this law to the appropriate authorities.
Urgent Call to Action on VAWC Cases
During a news forum held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, Social Welfare Officer 3 Carol Nuyda highlighted the pressing urgency of responding to incidents of abuse targeting women and children. She stressed that timely intervention is essential to protect victims and prevent further harm, underscoring the legal and moral obligations under the VAWC Act.
Alarming Statistics Reveal Widespread Abuse
Despite ongoing efforts to strengthen anti-VAWC initiatives, Nuyda pointed to disturbing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The statistics indicate that one in every four women has experienced abuse from their intimate partners, revealing a deeply entrenched societal issue. This figure underscores the pervasive nature of violence in domestic settings and the challenges in eradicating it.
Police Records Show High Case Numbers
Further emphasizing the scale of the problem, Nuyda referenced tracking data from the Philippine National Police (PNP). In the period from August to November 2025 alone, the PNP documented a staggering 6,883 VAWC cases. This high volume of incidents serves as a clear indicator that violence against women and children has become firmly rooted in social behaviors, necessitating more robust enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
Youth Often Directly Affected by Abuse
In many instances, Nuyda noted that young people are frequently direct victims or are significantly impacted by abusive relationships within their households. This highlights the broader societal repercussions of VAWC, extending beyond immediate victims to affect the well-being and development of the younger generation. The DSWD official urged communities to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding all vulnerable individuals.
