18 Local PNP in regions 2, 4A, 8, and 11 maintain an electronic database where data on GBV are kept. In other areas, namely regions 2, 3, 9, 10, 11, 12, and CARAGA, barangays have logbooks or what they refer to as “pink blotter” to keep count of cases they handle, though reports are not always detailed. In addition to logbooks, service providers from region 12 keep medical records related to GBV incidents. In region 1, GBV incidents are only documented when clients give their statements. In region 9, service providers have no formal record keeping system for of GBV cases or incidents. Only service providers from region 5 have a systematic practice of documenting GBV cases. They have a process manual which standardizes GBV case documentation in the region. Many areas in the region maintain a database of GBV victim incident reports, and conduct service delivery surveys for client feedback. On the other hand, majority of CSO representatives attest to having better focus on the documentation of cases they manage. Save for representatives from region 1 and one barangay in region 5, CSOs use logbooks and keep pictures, following DSWD standards for documenting GBV cases. Some regions conduct trace studies and impact assessments to enrich their GBV database. Like government service providers, CSOs protect the confidentiality of their data and only use them to advance their clients’ cases. Challenges in Case Management and Premature Case Withdrawals Government and CSO involvement in GBV case management is faced with many challenges. These problems are socio-economic, structural, cultural, and personal in nature. In many cases, such barriers cause case withdrawals by clients which can be frustrating to both GBV victims and those helping to advance their cases. Clients, first and foremost, suffer from barriers in accessing legal remedies. As mentioned earlier, most victims of GBV suffer from poverty and barely earn to afford day-to-day survival. Particularly in regions 12 and CARAGA, many women live in remote areas and need time and money to travel to government offices where they can seek the help they need. It is not a standard across all government service providers to provide VAW victims with financial support. Victims who are mothers may be discouraged to report their cases especially if they earn on a day-to-day basis and they have children to tend to. In addition to barriers related to accessibility, women living in poverty are also often lacking in knowledge about their rights under the law.They can be easily threatened by vicious perpetrators or those in better positions of power. In outskirts of regions 2, 8, and CARAGA, women are pressured to sign waivers in their barangays which state they are not filing cases against their perpetrators who have personal connections with authorities. Some perpetrators go as far as threatening service providers or social workers who help women survive their abuse. Majority of GBV cases occur in intimate relationships, where perpetrators are partners This is often overlooked by formal assistance systems. Trauma and fear from having been violated can be paralyzing and confusing to victims. In many cases, survivors of GBV are

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