THE ROLE OF BARANGAY PERSONNEL IN ADDRESSING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN IN BARANGAY MAPULANG LUPA VALENZUELA CITY

Abstract

Violence Against Women and Their Children Act, or Republic Act 9262 of 2004, refers to a series of acts committed by any person against a woman who is a wife, former wife, or a woman with whom the person has or had a sexual or dating relationship, or with whom he has a common child, or against his or her child, whether legitimate or illegitimate. The barangay personnel role in handling Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) cases is outlined in Section 47 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 9262. The instrument used in this study was a survey questionnaire. The respondents of the study included 20 barangay personnel, equivalent to 28.57 percent, and 50 residents, equivalent to 71.43 percent. Therefore, the total number of respondents was 70. This study used quantitative methods, particularly a descriptive research design. The purposive sampling technique was applied in this study, a method also known as judgment sampling or selected sampling. The total composite mean for mediation and conflict was 3.22, indicating “Strongly Agree” as the verbal interpretation. “Maintain impartiality and neutrality throughout the case of Violence Against Women and Their Children” got the highest weighted mean of 3.37 with a verbal interpretation of “Agree.” “Victims of VAWC feel safe and supported when seeking help from the barangay” got the highest weighted mean of 3.49 with a verbal interpretation of “Strongly Agree.” “The barangay can provide enough protection to victims of Violence Against Women and Their Children during the intervention process” ranked first with a weighted mean of 3.39, indicating “Strongly Agree.” “Barangay personnel monitor the VAWC cases to ensure that victims receive the necessary help and support” got the highest weighted mean of 3.42 with a verbal interpretation of “Strongly Agree.” For victims of Violence Against Women and Their Children, it is recommended that they seek assistance or guidance from barangay personnel and other available support agencies to ensure their safety. For barangay personnel, it is important to maintain impartiality and sensitivity in the processing of VAWC cases to encourage victims to report cases without fear of discrimination or bias.