The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has initiated a formal investigation into a reported service lapse at Police Station 17 in Baliok, focusing on the unavailability of a Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Desk Officer. This probe was ordered by newly installed DCPO director Peter Madria after a complainant highlighted difficulties in seeking assistance for a VAWC-related matter.
Incident Details and Public Complaint
According to a complaint that circulated online, the individual first visited the station on Monday, March 30, 2026, to file a blotter but was advised to return the next day because the designated VAWC Desk Officer was attending a Women’s Month activity at Camp Catitipan. When the complainant returned days later at approximately 4:30 p.m., the VAWC office was reportedly closed, with no officer available to assist. The front desk officer allegedly instructed the complainant to come back again the following day.
The complainant expressed frustration over having to make multiple trips to the station and questioned the absence of a VAWC officer on duty, emphasizing that police stations are expected to provide round-the-clock service. This incident has raised significant concerns about the station's service delivery, particularly in handling gender-sensitive cases.
Police Response and Accountability Measures
Madria immediately directed the station commander of Police Station 17 Baliok to submit a formal explanation regarding the incident and account for the absence of personnel assigned to the VAWC Desk. He stressed that lapses in police service are not tolerated, especially in cases involving women and children.
"Public service is a duty that demands accountability and responsiveness at all times. Our police stations are mandated to operate around the clock, and every complainant must be properly attended to without delay or prejudice," Madria stated.
The DCPO chief reiterated that all police stations in the city must ensure VAWC Desks are manned and fully operational at all times, emphasizing that no complainant should be turned away regardless of circumstances. The DCPO assured the public that measures are being reinforced to prevent similar incidents, including stricter monitoring of personnel deployment and compliance with standard operating procedures in handling gender-sensitive cases.
Corrective Actions and Public Engagement
Madria confirmed that corrective actions would be taken following the investigation. The DCPO also encouraged the public to report similar concerns to help improve police services across all stations, underscoring a commitment to transparency and continuous enhancement of law enforcement responsiveness.
