The City Government, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), conducted the 2nd Quarter Meeting cum Capacity Development with the Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (LCAT-VAWC) at the Gregorio “Bunog” R. Hufano Session Hall on April 30, 2026.

The meeting focused on strengthening inter-agency coordination and communication in addressing cases of VAWC and Trafficking in Persons (TIP) amid rising incidents involving minors and other vulnerable sectors. It also covered the validation and consolidation of trafficking data, identification of high-risk areas and establishments, and improvements in inter-agency case management and enforcement protocols.

Participants discussed the review and expansion of LCAT-VAWC membership, proposed amendments to existing ordinances, and the adoption of clearer guidelines for regulating establishments. The operationalization of the GAD Crisis Center for victims was likewise emphasized.

During the meeting, the body agreed to strengthen coordination mechanisms through unified referral systems and protocols, pursue timely policy enhancements through ordinance updates and implementing rules, and enforce stricter but lawful actions against non-compliant establishments.

Additional efforts will also be observed, focusing on enhancing victim protection services, ensuring facility readiness and security, exploring witness protection support, and establishing a centralized database alongside targeted trainings to improve response, rescue, and reintegration processes. These will support the formulation and adoption of the 2027 Work and Financial Plan with clear interventions, timelines, and indicators.

The meeting was led by Atty. Maria Nadia Nalinac V. Gonzales-Pilar, who served as presiding officer on behalf of City Mayor Hermenegildo A. Gualberto. Invited resource speakers included Atty. Narlito A. Urgel from the National Bureau of Investigation, Atty. Yolanda A. Salanga from the Commission on Human Rights Region I, PLT Hilda M. Flores from the PNP Women and Children Protection Desk, Chief of Police (COP) PLTCOL Tristan Oliver B Nara, and City Prosecutor Atty. Alexander M. Andres. Further, Atty. Gilbert L. Caloza, City Administrator and member of the LCAT-VAWC, also provided key insights during the discussion.

This meeting was also attended by representatives from different offices of the City Government, City Department of the Interior and Local Government, Gender and Development Focal Point System, Non-Governmental Offices for Overseas Filipino Workers, Liga ng mga Barangay, Advancing God’s Kingdom Mission International, Barangay VAWC Federation President Ms. Clarita S. Balba, and barangay representatives from Barangays San Francisco and Poro.

Kakabsat, the City Government reinforces its commitments to all Fernandos and Fernandas that all efforts and initiatives against TIP and VAWC are maximized here in our #PeoplesCity of #SanFernandoTayo.