Women and Children Protection Desk

"Childhood should be carefree, playing in the sun; not living in a nightmare in the darkness of the soul." — Dave Pelzer

On January 19, 2023, Police Cadets assigned at Tagaytay Component City Police Station, were able to familiarize on duties and functions of Women and Children Protection Desk and its proper procedure.

The PNP-WCPD plays a crucial role in investigating cases of VAWC and providing support for victim-survivors. One of their key responsibilities is to conduct appropriate investigations, which includes taking formal statements from the victim-survivor and collecting other necessary evidence for filing a case. The WCPD officer must ensure that, as far as possible, the examining physician must be of the same gender as the victim-survivor, especially in cases of sexual violence.[1]

In addition to investigation, the PNP-WCPD is also responsible for referring victim-survivors to medical facilities for examination. The officer must immediately refer the victim-survivor to the nearest PNP Crime Laboratory and/or hospital or any medical facility for appropriate medico-legal examination. Only persons authorized by the victim-survivor shall be allowed by the WCPD officer inside a room where police investigation, as well as the medical/physical examination, are being conducted in private.

Confidentiality is a critical aspect of the PNP-WCPD's work, and they must ensure that the identity of the victim-survivor and all other parties directly involved with the case under investigation is kept confidential. Under no circumstances shall any police officer allow media access to information concerning VAWC reported to PNP.

The PNP-WCPD must also provide victim-survivors with access to psychosocial and rehabilitation programs. After the conduct of the police investigation, the WCPD officer shall refer the victim-survivor to the social worker of the LGU, any available DSWD shelters, NGO, and other service providers for psychosocial intervention and other rehabilitation programs. The officer must also assist in the application and enforcement of the provisions of the protection order as may be issued by the barangay or the court.[2]

Furthermore, the PNP-WCPD must participate in multidisciplinary mechanisms to help address the protection needs of the victim-survivor of VAWC. They must monitor and follow up on any case in violation of the Act that has been filed in court and maintain a periodic assessment report of all cases reported to the police in violation of the Act.

Overall, the PNP-WCPD's duties and functions are critical in providing support for victim-survivors of VAWC. The importance of confidentiality, appropriate investigation, and access to psychosocial and rehabilitation programs cannot be overstated in ensuring the safety and protection of victim-survivors. Through their work, the PNP-WCPD plays a significant role in combating violence against women and children in the Philippines.

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[1] Women and children protection desk. (2014, March 7). PAVIA POLICE STATION. https://paviapnp.wordpress.com/women-and-children-protection-desk/

[2] “Philippines : PNP-10 Steps up Drive vs Violence; Strengthens WCPDs.” MENA Report, Albawaba (London) Ltd., Apr. 2017, p. n/a.