THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ANTI-VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN AWARENESS IN BARANGAY KALIGAYAHAN, QUEZON CITY

Abstract

Violence against women and their children (VAWC) continues to be a significant concern in the Philippines. Republic Act No. 9262, or the Anti-VAWC Act of 2004, was enacted to address the rising incidence of abuse inflicted by intimate partners, which includes physical, sexual, psychological, and economic harm, as well as threats, coercion, harassment, or unjust deprivation of liberty. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of anti-VAWC awareness efforts in Barangay Kaligayahan, Quezon City, and to determine how well these initiatives promote safety, protect rights, and prevent abuse. This study uses a qualitative research design to assess the impact of anti-VAWC awareness programs in Barangay Kaligayahan. A total of 50 participants were purposively selected and categorized into three groups: two barangay officials involved in VAWC-related services, three officers from the Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC), and 45 residents of Barangay Kaligayahan. The research investigates program strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, aiming to ensure that women and children live in a community where their rights are respected and their safety is prioritized. Findings revealed that the majority of respondents were female, married, aged 51 and above, and high school graduates. Respondents strongly agreed with the overall effectiveness of anti-VAWC awareness programs, particularly in terms of confidentiality, operational procedures in handling VAWC cases, and general awareness. The effectiveness of the anti-violence against women and their children programs in raising awareness of VAWC programs, maintaining confidentiality, and following operational procedures in VAWC cases was rated as “Strongly Agree,” except for the indicator on the elimination of VAWC cases (indicator 2.4.1), which measures the decrease in the number of VAWC cases reported in the community. This suggests that preventive efforts require strengthening. Commonly reported issues included a shortage of educational campaigns, infrequent workshops and seminars, insufficient barangay funding, lack of livelihood programs for women, low community participation, and the absence of a dedicated anti-VAWC task force—resulting in delayed response to cases. The study concludes that while anti-VAWC programs in Barangay Kaligayahan are viewed as effective by the community, there are significant gaps that need to be addressed. The researchers recommend that barangay officials and WCPC personnel intensify educational campaigns and awareness efforts, allocate sufficient resources, and establish a dedicated task force to ensure faster and more effective response to VAWC incidents. Strengthening community engagement and providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for women can further support the goals of anti-VAWC initiatives.