SOLANA, Cagayan – In a continued effort to support survivors of Trafficking in Persons (TIP), the Regional Inter-Agency Council for Anti-Trafficking (RIACAT), in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Philippines and the Partnership for Development Assistance Philippines (PDAP) (PDAP), conducted a site visit to two Centers and Residential Care Facilities (CRCFs) under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 02 on January 16, 2025.

The facilities visited, the Regional Haven for Women and Girls (RHWG) and the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC), provide shelter and holistic care to women and children who have survived various forms of abuse, including trafficking.

During the visit, survivors were given the opportunity to share their stories, emphasizing the government’s role in their rehabilitation and healing. The event also served as a platform for the survivors to directly convey their thoughts and emotions to the guests from USAID Philippines and PDAP.
“To everyone who has played a part in my journey… thank you. Your work is not just changing lives, it is saving us. Together, please continue to uplift survivors, empower us, and remind us that we are not defined by our past, but by the limitless future that lies ahead,” a resident of RHWG shared in her speech.Rebekah Eubanks, Deputy Mission Director of USAID Philippines, also expressed her gratitude during her remarks, “it takes a village to help our survivors. That is why I am grateful to see agencies providing comprehensive programs and services to combat trafficking.”

RIACAT, chaired by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and co-chaired by DSWD, leads initiatives to address trafficking concerns in the region. The collaboration between RIACAT, USAID Philippines, and PDAP aims to expand the reach of anti-trafficking campaigns, enhance policies, and strengthen support services for survivors.