Apayao aligns child, women protection programs to improve service delivery

Programs for children, women, and youth in Apayao are set for closer coordination following the joint first quarter meeting of the Provincial Council for the Protection of Children (PCPC) and the Provincial Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (PCAT-VAWC) held in Luna.

Said meeting focused on aligning agency plans for 2026, with the goal of making services more responsive at the community level. Participating offices laid out their Work and Financial Plans, mapping out how health, social welfare, law enforcement, labor, and youth programs can work together in handling cases and delivering support services.

With clearer roles and coordination, the province is expected to improve case response, strengthen protection services, and expand support for children, women, and families, particularly in areas that need sustained attention.

The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) presented a proposed P5,650,950.00 allocation for Early Childhood Care and Development, youth welfare, protective services, and programs addressing violence against women and children, adding support to ongoing efforts in the province.

Policy guidelines, council functionality, and current cases were also reviewed to address gaps and improve coordination among agencies.

The activity sets the direction for continued inter-agency work in delivering services and addressing concerns affecting children, women, and youth in Apayao.