The Training of Trainers on Strengthening the Capacities of Local Government Units in Handling Violence Against Women (VAW) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Cases builds upon the Training Manual developed by the Department through National Barangay Operations Office (NBOO) in partnership with Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap Panlegal (SALIGAN). This manual incorporates recent legislation, including the Safe Spaces Act, the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, and the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials laws. It aims to establish a group of qualified trainers who can deliver training to Punong Barangays and Barangay VAW/ASH Desk officers, enhancing their ability to effectively respond to VAW and GBV cases. The 5-day training consists of four (4) modules as outlined:
Module 1 introduces the fundamental concepts of sex, gender, and gender-based violence. It begins with exploring gender, defining its various dimensions, roles, and societal expectations. Understanding these concepts is critical to addressing the deeper issues surrounding gender-based violence, which is then examined in detail. This module sets the stage for a comprehensive understanding of the impact of violence that disproportionately affects women and children, laying the foundation for the more detailed discussions to follow.
Module 2, the focus shifts to the legal framework surrounding gender-based violence and offenses against women and children. This section covers several significant laws designed to protect vulnerable individuals. These include the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, which provides a broad range of protections for women and children. The module also delves into laws concerning sexual harassment and voyeurism, rape and other related felonies, trafficking in persons, and special laws protecting children. By the end of this module, learners will have a solid understanding of the legal tools available to combat gender- based violence. This knowledge will be crucial for helping VAW/ASH Desk officers create guides for responding effectively to cases involving these offenses.
Module 3 takes a closer look at the remedies available to victim-survivors of gender-based violence, focusing on the roles of local government units and service providers in addressing such cases. This module emphasizes the importance of a coordinated, responsive approach to cases of violence, detailing the mandatory services and responses that should be offered in specific cases. These include services for victims of the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act, sexual harassment and voyeurism, rape, trafficking, and violations of laws protecting children. Through this module, learners will gain a clear understanding of how various agencies and service providers work together to support survivors and ensure that legal frameworks are upheld.
Module 4 explores the practical aspects of operating a Barangay VAW/ASH Desk. This module guides how to establish a VAW/ASH Desk within a Barangay, create an effective referral network, and designate a qualified desk officer. It also covers essential aspects such as monitoring and evaluating VAW/ASH services, guiding service delivery to ensure consistency and effectiveness, and identifying both the challenges and opportunities in running a VAW/ASH Desk. By the end of this module, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively implement and manage local-level responses to gender-based violence.
Every regional focal person was tasked to outline their course of action for the next months through an action plan. For region 10, below are the suggested activities: