Child abuse cases in Caraga drop by 20%, says PNP
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga has reported a 20-percent decrease in child abuse and violence cases across the region this year, attributing the decline to strengthened awareness campaigns, community vigilance, and swift police action.
Police Brigadier General (PBGen.) Marcial Mariano P. Magistrado IV, regional director of PNP Caraga, lauded the collective efforts of the police, government agencies, and the public in protecting children and women from abuse and exploitation.
“We commend the cooperation of our communities and partner agencies. The 20 percent decrease in child abuse cases is a reflection of our collective efforts to protect the vulnerable. The PNP remains steadfast in ensuring that all reported cases are acted upon immediately and that victims receive the justice and protection they deserve,” said PBGen. Magistrado.
From January to November 6, 2025, the Regional Women and Children Protection Desk (RWCPD) recorded 567 cases of violence and abuse against children, 144 fewer incidents compared to the same period last year.
The PNP also recorded a two-year-old child as the youngest victim of violence against women and children (VAWC) in the region, underscoring the urgency of continued vigilance and protection efforts at home and in the community.
Police Major (PMaj.) Arlene T. Ga, chief of the RWCPD, said the decline signifies the impact of ongoing awareness efforts, strengthened coordination among agencies, and the community’s growing role in reporting abuse.
“The decrease in reported cases shows that our efforts in education, awareness, and community partnership are making a difference. But we must continue to be vigilant, especially in guiding our children against online threats and exploitation,” Ga said during the Kapihan sa PIA held on November 10 at SM City Butuan in observance of the National Children’s Month.
PNP Caraga data show that the top offenses remain violations of Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act with 241 cases, and rape with 196 cases, both showing a 25 percent decrease compared to last year.
Most rape cases were committed by trusted perpetrators such as friends, neighbors, classmates, or (ex-)boyfriends. The majority of victims were minors aged 11 to 14 years old, while most suspects were adults aged 18 to 40 years old.
The region also recorded three cases of trafficking in persons (TIP) this year, a slight decrease from four cases in 2024, primarily involving sexual exploitation.
PMaj. Ga assured that PNP Caraga ensures the immediate filing of criminal cases and arrest of suspects in all rape and abuse incidents. “All rape cases reported and received by the PNP are filed, and victims are fully assisted during the processing and filing of criminal cases,” she said.
She also underscored the importance of family support in helping victims recover and pursue justice. “Support from the family is crucial. Victims feel more empowered and protected when their loved ones stand by them through the process,” Ga added.
Ga further reminded parents to be vigilant in guiding their children’s social media use, citing that online exposure has become one of the contributing factors linked to child abuse.
The PNP continues to strengthen its programs through awareness drives, community dialogues, and immediate response mechanisms, ensuring that Women and Children Protection Desks (WCPDs) in all police units remain accessible and responsive.
“In partnership with the community, we urge everyone to report any violation against women and children. Protection begins with awareness, family support, and collective action,” Ga emphasized.
Other members of the Caraga Regional Committee for the Welfare of Children (RCWC) also joined the Kapihan sa PIA’s discussion as resource persons, reinforcing inter-agency collaboration to promote a safe, informed, and child-friendly Caraga region. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)