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Reporting the incident to the barangay and have it recorded in the logbook
Taking a photo for purposes of documentary evidence
During the ECQ period, were you able to document GBV cases? Can
you share trends and observations?
Respondents revealed some were able to document GBV cases like physical
violence and rape. They observed that the strict protocols imposed during the ECQ
period made it very difficult for victims to seek help. They also noted that common
GBV cases are results of heated arguments over unremitted salary (of the husband)
and infidelity.
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Is there also a case during ECQ that showcase difficulty in accessing
justice/legal remedies in cases of GBV? What contributed to the
barriers/difficulty?
According to the respondents, GBV cases committed during the ECQ period are
often not reported because women lack the knowledge and guidance of what to do
and where to go. Possible factors contributing to these barriers are the lack of
access to government services because limited movement and because some
government agencies are operating on a skeleton workforce thus there is lack of
personnel to cater to their needs. Another factor is the lack of financial resources
as income-generating activities have been suspended for the whole period of the
ECQ period. There is also a lack of support from the victim’s family.
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From experience, is there a government good practice in responding
to GBV? During COVID-Pandemic, are there also good practices?
The 18 respondents were not able to experience good practice in responding to
GBV prior to and during the onset of the pandemic.
5.
Recommendations
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Considering the challenges and barriers you have observed during the
COVID- 19 pandemic and the ensuing new normal, what are your
recommendations on ensuring prompt an effective response to GBV?
1. Improve functionality and accessibility of Barangay VAW Desks.
2. There should be an established procedure during the investigation which
guarantees full and strict confidentiality.
3. Barangay VAW Desk Officers should be trained to hand VAW cases.