CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY THE BARANGAY OFFICIALS IN RESOLVING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND CHILDREN AT BARANGAY 176A BAGONG SILANG, CALOOCAN CITY

Abstract

Violence against women and children (VAWC) remains a pervasive issue in the Philippines, affecting communities at all levels. This study examines challenges encountered by barangay officials in resolving VAWC cases in Barangay 176A, Bagong Silang, Caloocan City. It explores how limited training, resource constraints, and low community awareness hinder effective intervention. This study highlights the need for focused training programs, increased resource allocation, and strengthened community engagement to support victims and enhance local response capabilities. This study employs a quantitative descriptive design using a structured survey questionnaire administered to 60 participants residing in Barangay 176A, Bagong Silang, Caloocan City. The sample comprises 30 barangay officials and 30 residents selected through purposive sampling. Data collection focused on demographic characteristics, perceptions of factors affecting VAWC resolution, and recommendations for improving local interventions. Responses were analyzed using frequency distributions and percentage calculations. Most respondents were female (88.3%), and over half were aged 41 and above (53.3%). Half of the participants were married, and 26.7% held college degrees. Respondents agreed that social norms, institutional limitations, and economic pressures influenced efforts to address VAWC. The primary challenge identified was a lack of awareness about laws protecting women and children from violence. The top recommendation was for the barangay to establish regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess the effectiveness of VAWC interventions and to ensure continuous improvement. The findings underscored significant obstacles faced by barangay officials in addressing VAWC, notably insufficient legal awareness among residents and limited institutional support. Most officials and community members lacked knowledge of protective legislation, which impeded timely reporting and intervention. Proposed measures included implementing a comprehensive multi‑sectoral strategy that integrates legal education, community outreach, and interagency collaboration. These approaches were expected to strengthen local capacity, improve victim support, and enhance overall effectiveness in resolving VAWC cases.