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The Apayao Anti-Abuse Council Converging Towards Humanitarian Action and Oneness (AHON) convened a coordination and consultation meeting on February 5, 2026, at the Legislative Building Conference Hall to address rising cases of abuse, gender-based violence, and mental health concerns involving children, women, and other vulnerable sectors in the province.
The meeting focused on setting up clear and workable reporting and referral pathways to ensure that victims receive timely intervention and support.
Participants included guidance teacher-designates from schools in Upper and Lower Apayao, representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Provincial Health Office (PHO), Office of the Governor, psychologists from Far North and Conner District Hospitals, and YAKAP Coordinator Fr. Adel A. Agcaoili. Discussions underscored the need for close inter-agency coordination in handling cases and protecting victim-survivors.
Ms. Gretchen P. Garcia presented the AHON Program, outlining ongoing efforts such as home visits, case conferences, psychosocial interventions, and coordinated support services for victims. Dr. Jay Jay Roaquin of the PHO shared program updates and announced the launch of the Apayao Provincial Mental Health Care Hub this February, which will provide mental health and psychosocial services for individuals affected by abuse and violence.
The meeting also introduced Y.A.K.A.P. (Yan Ang Kaibigan, Aalalay Palagi), a crisis helpline to be manned by trained mental health professionals and volunteer service providers. Fr. Agcaoili encouraged guidance teacher-designates to take part as helpline volunteers, stressing the role of school guidance offices as safe spaces for learners and victims to report concerns and seek help.
Schools Division Superintendent Irene Angway of SDO Apayao expressed full support for the initiative, noting that effective service delivery relies on sustained collaboration and shared responsibility among institutions.
The AHON Council reiterated its commitment to improving case management, strengthening coordination among agencies, and building a responsive support system for victims of abuse, violence, and mental health emergencies in Apayao.
