AN ASSESSMENT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ANTI-VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN IN POLICE STATION NO.14

Abstract

Violence against women and children (VAWC) is a serious and pervasive issue affecting communities throughout the Philippines, including Station 14 in Quezon City. Frontline agencies such as the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Barangay VAWC Desk play a vital role in addressing this concern. They are tasked with enforcing protective laws, implementing intervention measures, and providing essential support to victims. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act by legal practitioners, focusing on identifying gaps and areas for improvement in current enforcement measures. Conducted at Police Station No. 14 in Quezon City, the research utilized a quantitative-descriptive design. The study involved three groups of respondents: twenty-five (25) VAWC victims, five (5) personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), and ten (10) representatives from the Barangay VAWC Desk, totaling forty (40) participants. Data were collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire to gather insights on the effectiveness and challenges of implementing the VAWC law. The study found that most respondents were female, primarily within the 34 to 41 age range. Despite ongoing efforts to address cases of violence, several significant challenges remain. These include insufficient budget support, lack of specialized training for responders, delays in service delivery, weak inter-agency coordination, and a prevailing reluctance among victims to report abuse. These barriers significantly impede the timely and effective provision of support services, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced resources, continuous capacity-building, and stronger collaboration among agencies. To effectively address these concerns, the study recommends increased government funding, broader community education through seminars and media campaigns, and the creation of safe, confidential spaces where victims can speak out without fear. These measures are essential for developing a more responsive, empathetic, and efficient system to protect women and children from abuse. The findings of this study serve as a crucial foundation for enhancing service delivery, strengthening support systems, and improving coordination among local agencies in handling VAWC-related cases.