Advisers

Dexter C. Pon, RCrim, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) remains a serious social concern in many Philippine communities despite the existence of legal frameworks such as Republic Act 9262. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of barangay-based VAWC interventions in Barangay San Agustin, Quezon City, by examining women’s experiences in terms of accessibility of services, responsiveness of authorities, and availability of support systems. Specifically, it sought to describe the demographic profile of respondents, evaluate existing interventions, determine whether significant difference sexist in the assessment of these interventions, identify challenges encountered in their implementation, and propose programs to strengthen local responses. Guided by Resource Theory and anchored on the Input–Process–Output (IPO) framework, the study tested the hypothesis that there is a significant difference in the assessment of VAWC interventions across the identified dimensions. The study employed a quantitative descriptive research design. Data were gathered using a self-made, validated survey questionnaire administered to 50 purposively selected respondents, consisting of 40women survivors of violence and 10 VAWC Desk Officers in Barangay San Agustin. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the data. Findings revealed that respondents strongly agreed that VAWC interventions in the barangay are accessible (overall weighted mean=3.58), that authorities are responsive (overall weighted mean = 3.46), and that support systems are available (overall weighted mean =3.45). The most critical challenges identified were the shortage of safe shelters or temporary housing, limited financial or livelihood assistance, and insufficient counseling and psychosocial support. The study concludes that while Barangay San Agustin demonstrates positive performance in service accessibility, authority responsiveness, and support availability, significant gaps remain in structural and resource-based interventions, particularly in shelter and economic support. Strengthening barangay-level VAWC programs through the establishment of safe shelters, enhanced livelihood assistance, psychosocial services, and streamlined reporting mechanisms is essential to ensure comprehensive protection, recovery, and empowerment of women and their children.

Keywords

Intervention, violence, women