By Rachel Magday
In response to the rising cases of rape particularly involving children, Nueva Vizcaya has been chosen as the pilot area for the “Kwarto ni Neneng” program by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The municipalities selected for this initiative are Quezon and Dupax del Sur.
This announcement was made by PSWD Officer Flordeina C. Granada during a joint meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC), and the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC), on February 20.
The “Kwarto ni Neneng” project aims to provide separate rooms for beneficiaries’ households to ensure the separation of males and females.
Authorities have found that victims of violence, including acts of lasciviousness and rape, often live in homes with only one room, or “shared rooms,” which can increase the risk of such crimes, especially when male family members are under the influence of alcohol.
Under DILG Memorandum Circular 2024-033, beneficiaries of the project will receive assistance to build safe and secure living spaces. This initiative is expected to help reduce cases of violence against women and children in the province.
In addition to the “Kwarto ni Neneng” program, the provincial government is also implementing various initiatives to support victims of rape. These include providing free legal services and educational assistance to help them continue their studies until they graduate. These programs aim to empower survivors and ensure they have access to the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Gov. Atty. Jose Gambito emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “We must prioritize the safety and dignity of our women and children. By creating separate living spaces and providing necessary support, we are not just offering shelter; we are fostering an environment where they can thrive free from fear and violence. This is a crucial step towards building a safer and more compassionate community.
