ILOILO – Abused women and children in this province will no longer be left without immediate help.
The provincial government is rolling out Women and Children Protection Units (WCPUs) in five government hospitals to provide urgent medical care, psychological counselling, and legal assistance.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan, in its 12th regular session on Sept. 16, 2025, authorized Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. to sign a memorandum of agreement with the Child Protection Network Foundation, Inc. for the establishment of the WCPUs.
These will be located at Iloilo Provincial Hospital in Pototan, Rep. Pedro G. Trono Memorial Hospital in Guimbal, Aleosan District Hospital in Alimodian, Sara District Hospital in Sara, and Don Valerio Palmares Sr. Memorial District Hospital in Passi City.
“These protection units will bring services closer to the communities where women and children are most vulnerable,” said Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque, chair of the SP Committee on Women and Family Affairs.
She aedded: “Establishing WCPUs in our public hospitals is a firm and compassionate step toward an Iloilo where every woman and child is assured of safety, care, and the chance to thrive with dignity and hope.”
Officials stressed that by embedding the units in hospitals, victims can receive care without delay and without the burden of traveling far to access specialized services.
Each unit will operate as a “one-stop” center, ensuring that the response is swift, comprehensive, and survivor-centered.
The initiative, hailed as a milestone in public health and welfare, underscores Iloilo’s bid to strengthen its support system for vulnerable sectors. More than shelters, the WCPUs are envisioned as safe havens of healing, empowerment, and dignity./PN
