Muntinlupa women’s crisis center eyed

A dedicated crisis center for women survivors of violence and abuse is set to be established in Muntinlupa City, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The plan was initially discussed during DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian’s meeting with the Association of Women Legislators Foundation Inc.

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon said funding for the project has been released to the Department of Public Works and Highways.

On Thursday, Assistant Secretary Ada Colico of the department’s Protective Programs Division, together with officials from the Department of Health (DoH), conducted a site visit at the Haven for Women in Alabang, Muntinlupa, where the integrated clinic will be built.

Members of the Congressional Spouses Foundation Inc., local government officials, women legislators, and other stakeholders joined the inspection of the 31-year-old facility, which provides 24-hour care for women who experienced gender-based violence.

Colico said the initiative aims to address long-standing gaps by integrating medical and residential services in one facility.

Architect Dan Lichauco presented the design for the joint DSWD-DoH pavilion.