Zonta Club Cebu II holds book launching, turnover of handbook for VAW desk officers

In a significant stride towards addressing violence against women, the Zonta Club Cebu II, in collaboration with the handbook author, Atty. Mylene Gonzales Esquivel, officially launched and turned over the book “Helping VAW Survivors: A Practical Guide for Violence Against Women Desk Officers.”

The activity is among the events in the observance of the 18 Days of Activism against VAW by the Zonta Club Cebu II in cooperation with the Cebu Doctors University Hospital (CDUH) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Authored by Atty. Esquivel, a dedicated advocate for women’s rights, the handbook serves as a vital resource for VAW desk officers, equipping them with legal, procedural, and empathetic tools to effectively assist victim-survivors. Atty. Esquivel is the Child Rights Advocacy Center (CRAC) executive director, Miriam College, Quezon City.

The launch and turnover of the handbook marked a pivotal step in strengthening community efforts to combat violence and promote justice for women. This initiative underscores Zonta Club Cebu II’s commitment to empowering communities in the fight against violence and fostering a safer society for women.

“Today, we are not just launching a guide; we are reinforcing a promise—a promise to listen to survivors, to uphold their dignity, and to stand firmly on the side of justice. This handbook represents the hard work of a staunch defender of women and girls,” said Abay sa Kahayag Chairperson Dr. Elsa Basubas in her opening remarks.

“Violence against women is a grave reality that impacts not only individuals, but the very fabric of communities. Survivors of abuse often face barriers to justice and healing, and it is our responsibility to ensure that the systems meant to protect them are accessible, compassionate, and effective,” Zn Basubas noted.

This handbook serves as a vital tool in that mission as it will provide clear and actionable guidance for VAW desk officers and equip them to handle cases with sensitivity and expertise, she said.

A Resource for Those Who Serve

Dr. Asuncion Del Prado-Tremedal, chairperson of CDU and CDUH Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, explained that the idea of a handbook for VAW Desk Officers came about because those who attended the training organized by Zonta Club Cebu II last year have been changed.

~Zn Del Prado-Tremedal said she urged Atty. Esquivel to write a handbook so that even if there will be new VAW Desk Officers, it will help them deal with victim-survivors.~

Atty. Esquivel explains the motivation behind her work:

“I wrote this book for you—to serve as your guide. It is designed to help you navigate the responsibilities and complexities of managing VAW cases. Its purpose is to assist you in better serving and supporting victim-survivors.”

The handbook, structured into distinct sections, provides VAW desk officers with a comprehensive understanding of violence against women and practical strategies to address it.

A Deeper Understanding of VAW

The first section revisits the foundational concepts of violence against women, as defined by the landmark Republic Act 9262, also known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act. Esquivel emphasizes the importance of staying grounded in the law:

“Sometimes we tend to forget what constitutes violence against women. This section serves as a reminder of the many forms of abuse—physical, emotional, economic, and psychological—that women endure.”

By reinforcing these definitions, the handbook ensures that VAW desk officers remain vigilant and well-informed when identifying cases.

Empathy and Understanding: The Dynamics of Victim-Survivors

The second section delves into the complex psychological and emotional dynamics of victim-survivors. Esquivel sheds light on the behaviors and decisions that may seem perplexing to outsiders, such as why some survivors return to their abusive partners.

“You need to understand them; you need to empathize with them. Many survivors have been abused repeatedly yet still choose to go back. This section explains why—highlighting the impact of fear, financial dependence, cultural pressures, and trauma bonding.”

This segment encourages VAW desk officers to approach cases with empathy and patience, recognizing the multifaceted realities that survivors face.

A Tool for Transformation

By addressing both legal and human dimensions, the handbook is a practical and emotional guide for those on the frontlines of addressing VAW. Its purpose extends beyond procedural assistance; it seeks to foster a deeper connection between desk officers and the survivors they serve.

Esquivel’s donation of the handbook underscores her commitment to empowering local governments and communities in combating violence against women. It also reflects her belief that knowledge and compassion are key to transforming the lives of survivors.

VAW desk officers who attended the book launching received free copies of the handbook.

A Call to Action

As Atty. Esquivel hands over the handbooks, she leaves VAW desk officers with a message of hope and responsibility:

“You are at the forefront of this battle. With the right tools, understanding, and dedication, you have the power to make a difference in the lives of survivors. This book is your guide—use it to create change.”