The Regional 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, conducted the 2025 Buntis Congress, December 11, 2025, as part of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, carrying the theme “UNiTEd for a VAW-Free Philippines.”

The annual congress aims to ensure that pregnant women—especially those in vulnerable situations—receive essential guidance, protection, and support. By strengthening their knowledge on pregnancy, child care, and their rights under the law, the activity helps reduce health risks, prevent abuse, and promote safer environments for mothers and their newborns.

A total of 100 pregnant women from Magallanes, Tubay, Cabadbaran City, and RTR attended the event. Participants received Buntis Kits from DSWD Field Office Caraga’s Protective Services Division (PSD), the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga, and the Provincial Health Office (PHO) Agusan del Norte. The Association of DSWD Social Workers, Inc. (ADSWI) Caraga also distributed spaghetti packs as part of its holiday assistance.

Learning sessions were delivered by speakers from DSWD, RHU Magallanes, and PHO Agusan del Norte on RA 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (Anti-VAWC) Act of 2004, pre- and post-natal care, and causes of infant death—topics crucial for the well-being and preparedness of expectant mothers.

The initiative underscores the government’s continuing commitment to protect women, uphold their rights, and ensure safer, healthier futures for every Caraganon mother and child.