Written by: Wayne Y. Bagaoisan, Voughn Liam D. Laruan, Dainielle Jazz P. Nunag, Felipe N. Villanueva | Photographed by: Alseiah Haluber, Voughn Liam D. Laruan
BAGUIO CITY — On February 27, 2026, the University of Baguio (UB) School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (SCJPS) successfully hosted the outreach program with the theme of “Empowering Voices, Ending Violence – United for the Safety and Dignity of Women and Children.” This event was conducted at the Pinsao Proper Barangay Hall, Baguio City, with the initiative aimed to strengthen awareness, legal literacy, and community action against Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC). The participants were mainly the Pinsao residents, targeting 4Ps beneficiaries, Pinsao barangay kagawads and other officials, and single parent.
The program was conducted in collaboration between Ms. Cora Murphy Dog-uis, an esteemed instructor and the Extension and Community Outreach Services or ECOS coordinator from the SCJPS, and Ms. Nellie R. De Vera from the School of Nursing. A combined expertise in Criminal Justice and Healthcare provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of legal and psychosocial dimensions about the occurring violence within our society.
The forum included legal definitions related to VAWC, different types of violence, procedures in reporting VAWC, and a brief overview of the different Philippine laws which are designed to protect women and their children. Among the laws highlighted were Republic Act No. 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004), Republic Act No. 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995), and Republic Act No. 9710 (Magna Carta of Women) to name a few. Ms. De Vera emphasized that awareness of these laws, especially in today’s setting, empowers victims and communities towards taking action to combat this persistent dilemma.
The day progressed as the speakers highlighted theories which explain how violence may occur within the home setting as well as giving a brief training as to how to recognize abuse, the proper authorities to call on to, and the possible key interventions that are being done to mitigate damage. The forum was successfully concluded by an open discussion amongst the community as key members, such as the Lupong Barangay, raised questions which incited everyone to participate.
The School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety’s involvement with programs such as community outreach shows their commitment towards addressing the various forms of issues our society tackles. Equipping the community with the knowledge and the ability to identify and actively combat and mitigate violence against women and their children, the department reinforces its dedication to fostering a safer and more just environment for all. This aligns to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – By addressing the physical and psychological impacts of abuse and advocating for support services provided by the Government.
- SDG 5: Gender Equality – By promoting women’s rights and eliminating all forms of violence and discrimination.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – This event targets marginalized groups primarily affected by VAWC. This empowers them with information and support to reduce their vulnerabilities and promotes social harmony.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – By strengthening legal awareness amongst the participants.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The collaboration between the School of Criminal Justice and the Department of Nursing, along with local barangay officials, demonstrates a multi-sectoral partnership essential for achieving the SDGs.
