DAVAO City  -“Proteksyon ng Bata, Tungkulin ng Bawat Isa” is this year’s theme in the observance of the 18^th National Awareness Week for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Commercial Sexual Exploitation.

Through Proclamation No. 731 series of 1996, the annual observance aims to provide awareness to children, parents, families and communities in making the environment safe, protective and caring for the children.

In support to the event, the Department of Social Welfare and Development will conduct media announcements through a press conference and radio programs.

The DSWD Home for Girls and Women will host a Thanksgiving Mass, Lecture, Art Painting Contest and Quiz Bee on February 13^th.

Other activities pushed by DSWD are Lecture Series, Media Blitz, Lay Forum, and Orientation and Skills Training relative to child protection against sexual abuse.

Further, DSWD encourages media partners to help announce the event.

In 2013, the DSWD Home for Girls and Women has served 21 cases on sexual and physical abuse as well as trafficking incidents.

Meanwhile, the DSWD community-based social workers under the Protective Service Unit processed 45 cases on trafficking in persons, physical and sexual abuse last year.

Victims of abuse are provided assistance like protective custody, temporary shelter, counselling, financial and transportation.

For further intervention, DSWD refers cases to the Philippine National Police, Southern Philippines Medical Center, Public Attorney’s Office, Regional Prosecutor’s Office or to LGU Social Welfare and Development offices, depending on the need of the client. (DSWD)