The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) held a follow-through meeting on Tuesday (January 13) to fine tune plans for the proposed Center for Women and Children in Crisis, envisioned to serve women and their dependents who are in distress and experiencing mental health conditions.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian called for a meeting with Bulacan 4th District Rep. Linabelle Villarica, Bukidnon 3rd District Rep. Audrey Zubiri, and Pangasinan 4th District Rep. Gina De Venecia who joined online. The three congresswomen reiterated their commitment to establish a crisis center that directly responds to the complex needs of women survivors and their children, particularly those needing longer-term recovery and mental health support.
The meeting also brought together partner agencies to strengthen a coordinated and holistic approach to care. Representing the Department of Health (DOH) were Secretary Teodoro Herbosa and National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Chief Noel Reyes, who emphasized the importance of integrating specialized mental health services into the proposed facility to ensure comprehensive and sustained support for women and children requiring psychosocial and clinical interventions.
Building on earlier discussions between the DSWD and the Association of Women Legislators Foundation Inc. (AWLFI), the proposed center is envisioned as a one-stop facility that bridges welfare, protection, and mental health services through close collaboration between the DSWD and the DOH.
Joining the meeting were DSWD Undersecretary for Operations Monina Josefina Romualdez; Director for Center Development Office Rowela Hizon; Asst. Director Kaye Sacapaño; and Director for Administrative Service Karina Antonette Agudo. (KI)
