The Regional Haven for Women received the Best Center award at the 2024 PRAISE Awards on March 14, 2025. It encourages DSWD Field Office 7 to intensify its efforts in promoting women’s advocacy.
One of which is the elimination of violence against women and children (VAWC). This cause gains visibility through the celebration of Women’s Month every March and the 18-day campaign to raise awareness, which runs annually from November 25 to December 12.
As a temporary protection facility, the Haven for Women provides shelter and rehabilitation, empowerment, and opportunities for women to rebuild their lives by promoting and raising awareness of this important advocacy.
Ananisa F. Aviso, former center head and currently the Focal Person for Women’s Welfare, emphasized that the Haven for Women contributes to the fight against VAWC.
One initiative was bringing together former and current residents of the center during its 31st anniversary celebration on July 19, 2024. The event, themed “RHW at 31: Amplifying the Voices of Victim-Survivors to Effect Change,” aimed to establish a network of support and watch groups within the community to protect women in crisis or victims of VAWC.
“What better way to lead a network of advocates for women’s empowerment than by those who have experienced violence and abuse firsthand,” Aviso said.
“Thus, a network of women survivors who will become protectors, rescuers, and enforcers of this advocacy on the ground, especially in their respective communities, is a must,” she added.
The gathering included a focus group discussion, where former and current residents shared their experiences and insights on how the center had positively impacted their lives.
Eva, previously known by a different name, is 29 years old and was once a resident of the Haven for Women. She was rescued by the DSWD and temporarily placed in the center due to sexual exploitation.
She was one of the former residents invited to the gathering, where she vowed to strengthen the established network, determined to use her voice to inspire other women, and pledged to challenge societal stereotypes.
“Many women remain voiceless because of the stereotype that women are just housewives—dependent on their husbands. I vow to challenge that,” she said.
Recalling her time at the center, Eva decided to continue her education and pursue a degree in social work. With support from DSWD covering part of her tuition, she also worked in fast-food restaurants to cover additional expenses.
Eva completed her degree, became a Registered Social Worker, and now works as a DSWD social worker.
“Despite the harsh realities of life—sometimes they break your soul—but most of the time, they deepen your understanding that life gives back to those who do not quit,” she shared.
“I don’t consider myself as a journey that can inspire others, but as a woman and a social worker, I know I must take a stand against those who abuse women and children,” Eva added.
According to her, the center’s recognition as the ‘Best Center’ brings a greater responsibility to lead by example in growing a network that helps protect women and children from abuse and violence. “I am happy to take part,” she assured.
Along with the DSWD 7’s Women Welfare Sector and the IACAT7-VAWC, the Haven for Women aims to take part in discussions and orientations on gender-based violence in communities with high reported cases of VAWC. ###
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