PALO, LEYTE (PNA) – Project ARUGA, that is, Project All-Convergence Recovery and Unified General Intervention Approach, which aims to establish a multi-sectoral, survivor-centered approach to prevent rape and gender-based violence (GBV) in Eastern Visayas, was officially launched by the Police Regional Office (PRO) 8 on January 24, 2025.
Accordingly, PRO 8 forged Project ARUGA with the goal of enhancing the general well-being and recuperation of rape and other GBV victims with the project’s main goal being the prevention of future incidents of rape, violence against women and children (VAWC), and other types of gender-based violence, such as suicide, while assisting survivors in overcoming the social stigma that obstructs their progress. Additionally, in order to guarantee long-term success, the project stresses consistent community involvement.
Project ARUGA is anticipated to make a substantial contribution to the decrease of GBV and rape cases in Eastern Visayas, fostering safer and more supportive communities, through the joint efforts of local governments, law enforcement, and community organizations. During the said event, PRO 8 Regional Director Police Brigadier General (PBGen) Jay R. Cumigad emphasized the long-term effects and benefits of Project ARUGA in creating safer neighborhoods and conveyed his optimism for the project’s success, saying, “I hope that this project will be successful for the security of our generation and the generations to come.”
On the other hand, on behalf of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) 8 Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe, Local Government Monitoring and Evaluation Division (LGMED) Chief Dr. Jhonel M. Añavesa shared details on the crucial role of local government units (LGUs) and Barangay-Based Institutions (BBIs) in preventing GBV. Añavesa emphasized how working with different sectors might help LGUs support survivors more effectively and bolster preventative efforts.
Meanwhile, Police Captain (PCpt) Beverly Ann Barredo, PRO 8’s Chief of the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD), discussed the current trends of rape cases in Region 8. Finally, Rico Apelado from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 8 discussed approaches for the psychosocial recovery and reintegration of victims, adding that the police are key players in strengthening local efforts to combat sexual violence and support victims. (By Gwen Maurillo / EV Mail Jan. 27 – Feb. 02, 2025 issue)
