In celebration of National Women’s Month, the University of Northern Philippines (UNP), through its College of Law, University Research and Development Office (URDO), and Clinical Legal Education Program (CLEP), successfully conducted an extension activity titled “Empowering Baclig: Strengthening Women’s Rights, Legal Awareness, and Research Dissemination on Anti-VAWC Services” on March 26, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Barangay Baclig, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur.
The activity was organized in response to a formal request from Barangay Baclig, aiming to address the pressing need for legal empowerment among its residents, particularly women and children who may be vulnerable to violence and abuse. Anchored on the university’s commitment to community engagement, the program focused on promoting legal awareness, disseminating research-based insights, and providing direct legal assistance.
A key highlight of the program was the research dissemination led by Atty. Meilyne C. Padua-Unciano, who presented the findings of the study titled “Implementation of Anti-VAWC Services to Victim-Survivors.” The study revealed that while mechanisms and services addressing violence against women and children are in place, challenges such as underreporting, fear of retaliation, and limited awareness continue to hinder their full utilization. The presentation underscored the importance of bridging these gaps through sustained legal education and community-based interventions.
Complementing the research presentation was a legal seminar conducted by a distinguished group of legal practitioners, including Atty. Mirela A. Verzosa, Atty. Meilyne C. Padua-Unciano, Atty. Jamaila A. Soller, Atty. Haysheryl V. Salamanca, Atty. Aryan Ceasar J. Manglapus, and Atty. Zsarmaine Lee S. Prades. The seminar covered key laws protecting women and children, namely Republic Act No. 9710 (Magna Carta of Women), Republic Act No. 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act), Republic Act No. 11313 (Safe Spaces Act), and Republic Act No. 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act). Through these discussions, participants gained a deeper understanding of their rights and the legal remedies available to them.
In line with its commitment to access to justice, the program also featured a legal aid counseling session, where residents were given the opportunity to consult directly with lawyers and law student practitioners under CLEP. This initiative provided personalized legal guidance and empowered community members to assert and protect their rights.
The success of the activity was made possible through the collaboration between UNP and Barangay Baclig, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering a safe, informed, and empowered community. By integrating legal education, empirical research, and direct legal services, the initiative significantly contributed to strengthening grassroots awareness and responsiveness to issues concerning violence against women and children.
Through programs like this, UNP continues to uphold its role as an agent of social transformation—bringing the law closer to the people and ensuring that justice is accessible to all, especially the most vulnerable sectors of society.
Article by Haysheryl V. Salamanca
