LCAT-VAWC earns ‘highly functional’ rating

The Cagayan de Oro Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (LCAT-VAWC) earned a ‘highly functional’ rating in the CY 2025 Functionality Assessment.

Councilor Desiree Dahino said the recognition is a reflection of what can be accomplished through collective effort and sustained commitment.

The LCAT-VAWC earned a total score of 108 points, moving from its previous moderately functional rating to highly functional in the latest assessment.

Dahino, co-chairperson of the City Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (CIACAT-VAWC) and chairperson of the City Council committee on women and family relations, recognized the contributions of the City Government, partner agencies, civil society organizations, public servants, and other stakeholders in achieving the result.

The assessment was conducted in accordance with DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2023-181, covering key areas including organization, meetings, policies, plans and budget, and accomplishments.

According to the assessment, the rating reflects the City Government’s sustained efforts to strengthen its local mechanisms and coordinated response to preventing trafficking in persons and addressing violence against women and their children.

For Dahino, however, the achievement goes beyond receiving a favorable assessment. It serves as a reminder of the continuing responsibility to strengthen programs, partnerships, and advocacy efforts aimed at protecting women, children, and other vulnerable sectors.

“This achievement is more than a recognition,” Dahino said.

“It is a reminder that our commitment to preventing trafficking, ending violence, and building a safer, more responsive community is making a difference,” Dahino further pointed out.  (JDO/SP)