More policewomen deployed to boost VAWC response

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March 3, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police will field more policewomen in barangays amid rising cases of violence against women and their children (VAWC) reported to the PNP emergency hotline.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the increase in the number of calls shows growing trust in the system.

“They are becoming more courageous in reporting violence at home. We see women becoming more aware that help is just a call away,” he said.

Citing data from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the PNP said Unified 911 received over 5,000 VAWC-related calls in 2025.

The hotline, which consolidated more than 30 local emergency numbers into a unified system, receives up to 500 VAWC calls per month.

To sustain the response, Nartatez said more policewomen would be deployed in barangays to assist victims and provide a more empathetic approach in handling sensitive cases.

“Our units are on standby around the clock to respond immediately,” Nartatez said.