Observed trends on GBV cases OCP – The culture of silence and close family ties sometimes prevent the complainant from filing charges against immediate family members. Some families are more concerned with protecting their reputation than opening to the public their domestic problems including violence against women and children. Because of this, violence is repeatedly committed and tolerated as the victim and perpetrator continue to live together. PAO – they have observed that some women who file cases of abuse against their husbands are unaware of the more severe forms of abuse such as psychological/emotional abuse. They are mostly concerned about demanding for support which is characteristic of the instant gratification syndrome. What does the service provider consider as difficult cases? Office of the City Prosecutor – As earlier mentioned, a significant number of VAWC cases fail to get conviction because the complainant will file for Affidavit of Desistance. One of the reasons is that while there is a pending preliminary investigation, the respondent will do something to influence and intimidate the complainant to withdraw the case especially if they live together. PAO – cases become difficult to pursue when one of the parties involved is abroad or away from the locality Challenges and barriers CSWD -- some cases recorded in the barangay level do not push through because complainant decided to withdraw the case. PGLU – some women are unaware of their rights, including the barangay protection order which they can file. There have also been instances when high profile cases involving perpetrators who belong to influential families do not push through because the barangay captain has been intimidated. IBP – some barangay captains are not aware of the BPO and how it will be accomplished PAO – some clients are not aware of their rights so additional violations are included in the case after a thorough interview with them. It was also observed that barangay officials are not aware in accomplishing the BPO. In terms of handling cases, the PAO does not have in-house psychologists/psychiatrists who can assist in cases where psychological abuse is present. CSWD – change of leadership in the barangay council may mean that the Barangay VAWC Desk Officer will change too. So the continuity and stability in carrying out their roles is compromised. Another challenge is when the perpetrators are the barangay officials themselves. Best practices PAO – they conduct regular seminars and lectures to barangay officials to capacitate them particularly on preparing and executing barangay protection orders 9 | Page