Western Visayas sees 18.9% drop in VAW cases

The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) has reported a significant decrease in Violence Against Women (VAW) cases across Western Visayas, reflecting what officials described as a major milestone in the region’s campaign to protect women and vulnerable groups.

Data from the Regional Women and Children Protection Desk (RWCPD) showed a total of 1,497 VAW incidents recorded from January to November 2025, down from 1,846 cases during the same period in 2024 — an 18.9 percent decline.

Police Captain Jolly B. Canindo, chief of the RWCPD, credited the drop to several proactive measures, including intensified information campaigns, sustained community engagement, stronger school-based advocacy, and enhanced coordination with government and non-government agencies.

These agencies include the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Justice (DOJ), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and various NGOs.

“Our collective efforts—from our police personnel to partner agencies and communities- have contributed to this substantial decline,” Canindo said.

Police Brigadier General Josefino D. Ligan, regional director of PRO6, commended all units and stakeholders for their role in achieving this progress.

“This achievement reflects our dedication to protecting women and children. Let us remain steadfast in being protectors of our women and children for a safer and happier Western Visayas,” Ligan said.