TO STRENGTHEN protection initiatives for women and children, Soroptimist International of Davao partnered with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and launched the “Adopt a PNP-Women and Children’s Protection Desk” initiative.
On Nov. 7, 2024, a memorandum of agreement was signed between Soroptimist International of Davao, represented by its president, Socorro Oesterdal, and PNP Station 16 Ma-a, represented by Chief PMAJ Elfren N. Barredo to formalize the intention of the parties to work together and indicate their commitment to enhance efforts to protect women’s and children’s rights.
The “Adopt a PNP-WCPD” project is designed to encourage community participation and support for initiatives focusing on the protection and empowerment of women and girls. The partnership has lined up activities to be implemented in four barangays under the Ma-a substation, namely Barangay Magtuod, Barangay Langub, Barangay New Carmen, and Barangay Ma-a.
Activities will include public information campaigns, community development programs, and gender-focused initiatives. The partnership will also vigorously advocate for the implementation of Republic Act 11930, the Anti-Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) considering that, currently, many young persons are victims of online sexual abuse and exploitation.
The collaboration seeks to deepen the commitment to safeguarding the welfare of women and children and to expand local networks of support. It hopes to positively impact the lives of more than 70,000 people which is the estimated aggregate number of people living in these four barangays.
Soroptimist International of Davao supported the Women and Children’s Protection officer’s participation in the PNP Biennial Summit held on November 25-27 in Ilo-ilo City, which provided additional skills and insights for police officers working in women and children’s protection.
The MOA signing was witnessed by key Soroptimist International officers, including past president Sally Leuenberger, board member Mila Teves, and first vice president Girlie Piccio. PNP representatives in attendance were PCPL Allaine Daguman, head of the Ma-a Women and Children’s Protection Desk, PCPL Jomarie A. Manginsay, head of the Police Community Relations Office, and Pat. Apple Elviña.
Soroptimist International of Davao is part of Soroptimist International of the Americas Philippine Region, a global volunteer network of approximately 66,000 members across more than 120 countries. Soroptimist International is committed to ensuring that women and girls have access to education, training, and resources that empower them to reach their full potential and achieve their goals.
