ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) -- In celebration of Women’s Month this March, the Odiongan Municipal Police Station (MPS) is encouraging women to report to their office if they are experiencing abuse and violence from their partners.

During the recent PIA Barangay Forum in Barangay Liwanag, Police senior master sergeant Zeeryl Formilleza, head of the Women and Children Protection Desk of Odiongan MPS, emphasized that the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004 or RA 9262 protects women experiencing such violence.

Formilleza explained that VAWC is a public crime, so aside from the female victim, relatives, barangay officials, social workers, or concerned citizens can also file cases against the male perpetrator.

In recent years, some women have approached the police in Odiongan to report and file charges against their abusive partners.

Apart from physical abuse, partners who engage in sexual, financial, and psychological abuse can also be charged with VAWC.

Although the police acknowledge that some cases are settled outside of court, they assure that they are always behind women who need help.

Children are also covered by the law’s protection.

“Let us work together to break the silence of violence in our community because we believe that if we can help women against abuse, the light in our homes will be stronger,” said Formilleza.

Formilleza also urged the public to collectively honor women's rights not only during Women’s Month but every day when they encounter women.

Aside from the police station, Formilleza mentioned that every barangay hall in Odiongan has a VAWC desk where women in need of assistance can seek help. (PJF/PIA Mimaropa - Romblon)