VAWC cases in city rise

Regardless of the existing laws and the continuing efforts of the police authorities to raise awareness against violations of human rights, especially those of the women and children, related incidents still persist in Cebu City.

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Based on the latest data obtained by The FREEMAN, the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) has recorded a notable increase in cases of violence against women children (VAWC) in the city.

From January to November 2025, reported incidents related to Republic Act 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, climbed to 154 this year, posing a 36.28% increase compared to the 113 cases last year.

Of the total VAWC incidents this year, 25 cases were cleared, while 129 were solved. Meanwhile, 49 of those cases were not pursued as the victims or their family refused to file charges against the perpetrators.

Cebu City WCPD chief, Police Captain Charisma Gonzales, attributed the increase of reported incidents through information dissemination efforts, including flyer distribution, social media posting, and holding seminars or lectures. She said that these activities also sparked a sense of awareness among the public to report and cooperate with the authorities.