Advisers

Divine Grace Rapsing

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

This study assessed the implementation of the Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) development program in Barangay Ugong, Valenzuela City, focusing on counseling, community service, and protection services. It aimed to determine the extent to which these programs protect, educate, and uphold the welfare of women and children. The study also examined the socioeconomic profile of respondents, evaluated the effectiveness of WCPC services, identified challenges in implementation, and determined whether significant differences existed among the assessments of WCPC personnel, barangay officials, and residents. The study employed a quantitative descriptive research design. Purposive sampling was used to select 100 respondents composed of 20 WCPC personnel, 30 barangay officials, and 50 residents of Barangay Ugong who had direct experience with or benefited from WCPC services. Data were gathered using a self-made survey questionnaire based on a Likert scale. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, weighted mean, ranking, and Kruskal-Wallis test were used for data analysis. Most respondents were married females aged 38–47. WCPC services were rated very effective overall, with protection services rated highest, followed by counseling and community engagement. However, assessments differed significantly among personnel, barangay officials, and residents. Despite positive ratings, challenges like coordination problems and limited resources were reported. The findings suggest that the WCPC development program significantly contributes to safeguarding and supporting women and children in Barangay Ugong. However, variations in assessment among stakeholder groups indicate differing perspectives on service delivery. Addressing coordination gaps, improving inter-agency collaboration, allocating adequate resources, and strengthening community participation are essential to further enhance program effectiveness and sustainability.

Keywords

community development, community engagement, women and children protection center, counseling, protection