In a concerted effort to support survivors of exploitation, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Central Visayas has ramped up its initiatives, as announced by an official on Friday. The agency has been instrumental in assisting 39 survivors of commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) and 18 victims of online sexual abuse or exploitation of children (OSAEC) and child sexual abuse or exploitation materials (CSAEM). Shalaine Marie Lucero, the DSWD-7 Director, highlighted that these individuals have been provided with comprehensive support including psychosocial counseling, educational opportunities, livelihood assistance, medical care, and temporary housing at facilities such as the Home for Girls and the Regional Haven for Women. To further combat exploitation, the DSWD has collaborated with schools, organizing five ‘Safer Internet Caravans’ in Cebu and Bohol towards the end of 2024. These caravans, in partnership with the Department of Education, World Hope International, and the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, successfully educated 479 junior high school students on crucial topics like online safety, privacy, and how to report abuse. Lucero reaffirmed the DSWD’s unwavering commitment to eradicating exploitation, emphasizing continued collaboration with law enforcement for rescue operations and the provision of top-tier care facilities.
