The Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (RIACAT-VAWC) Caraga, chaired by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, gathered key partners and stakeholders for a regional convergence activity marking the culmination of the month-long observance against gender-based violence and human trafficking.

The event opened with a message from DSWD Caraga Regional Director and RIACAT-VAWC Chair Mari-Flor Dollaga, followed by an inspirational message from DILG Regional Director and RIACAT-VAWC Co-Chair Maria Loisella Lucino, CESO V. Both officials underscored the importance of strengthened partnerships and sustained efforts among local committees and communities in putting an end to exploitation and abuse.

A key highlight of the program was the Awarding and Recognition of Functional Local Committees Against Trafficking and VAWC (LCAT-VAWCs) and RIACAT-VAWC Advocates, honoring their steadfast dedication and valuable contributions in the fight against trafficking and violence in their respective localities. Commendably, all Provincial Local Government Units of Caraga—PLGU Agusan del Norte, PLGU Surigao del Norte, and PLGU Surigao del Sur—as well as the City Committee Against Trafficking and VAWC (CCAT-VAWC) of Butuan City were recognized for their exemplary high functional performance and sustained commitment.

Representing Governor Johnny Pimentel, Surigao del Sur Provincial Chief Administrator John Vincent Pimentel emphasized the importance of continuous commitment in his message:

“This award is not just any ministerial gesture, not just any culmination—it is, in fact, a zenith of hard-earned efforts in years passed. And we offer it to every child, every woman, and every Surigaonon protected. We assure you of our unwavering commitment, our staunch advocacy, and our solid championing of peacebuilding efforts.”

Further strengthening the collective stance, all participants took part in an Expression of Commitment through a ceremonial signing on a commitment wall, symbolizing unity in ending trafficking and all forms of violence against women and children.

Cultural performances by the BCNHS Cultural Dance Performers, PNP PRO 13 Performers, and BJMP Caraga Performers added energy to the celebration.

The program concluded with a powerful reminder from Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga Regional Director Atty. Aurora Luanne R. Cembrano-Ramos, delivered by Atty. Joyce Ann Adlawan-Nollora:

“As much as I would want this afternoon to be as festive as possible, I also bear the burden to remind that while we have already accomplished a lot in our fight against trafficking in persons, we still have a long, long way to go. The UN CEDAW reviewed the Philippines’ efforts in 2023 and noted that the State party remains a source country for international and internal trafficking. Let us take this as a challenge.”

The activity concluded with a symbolic One Billion Rising Dance, signifying solidarity and the continuing advocacy for the protection of human rights and the promotion of gender equality in Caraga and beyond.

DSWD Field Office Caraga extends immense gratitude to the members of RIACAT-VAWC for their tireless efforts in advocating for the cause.