After the focus group discussion, Atty. Juyo allowed the participants to raise questions and clarifications. Below are the salient points of the discussion that followed: • Participants asked if VAWC cases can be settled in the barangay level. They cited experiences where the complainant agreed to settle the case by signing an agreement with the accused. Atty. Juyo emphasized that VAWC cases are criminal offense. Given so, this cannot be amicably settled in the barangay level. Any agreement/settlement signed in the barangay will be considered null and void by the court of law. • A participant from the PNP expressed that they currently do not have any facility that can accommodate children and mentally challenged clients. She then asked whether they will be made liable or accountable by CHR if they are caught accommodating these clients in a “purok” outside of the PNP facility. Mr. Peter Arendain recommended that these clients must be referred to appropriate agencies such as MSWD or MHO. At 11:50 in the morning, the discussion was formally closed to give way to the presentation of the FGD synthesis. VII. Presentation of Synthesis/ Validation | 11: 15 AM – 12:09 PM The synthesis of the focus group discussion was presented by Atty. Ciena May Juyo. She presented back the participants answers and asked whether she missed out on something. The participants affirmed that the synthesis is complete and accurate. VIII. Closing / Ways Forward | 12:10 PM – 12:15 The activity was formally closed with the distribution of Certificates of Participation and Attendance. This was facilitated by Mr. Peter Niel Arendain. Participants were also asked to fill out the evaluation sheet that was distributed earlier. At 12:15 in the afternoon the session concluded with a photo opportunity with the participants. End of Day 1 12