Written by: L. Boltiador | Photos by A. Balasabas

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region IX, through its Regional Monitoring Task Force (RMTF), successfully conducted the Regionwide Functionality Assessment of the Local Councils for the Protection of Children (LCPC) and Local Committees on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (LCAT-VAWC) from June 17 to 27, 2025.

The assessment evaluated the effectiveness of LGUs in implementing child protection and anti-VAWC programs, as well as their compliance with national policies and standards. The process included presentations, document reviews, and on-site validations with the active participation of LCPC and LCAT-VAWC members.

The Regional Inter-Agency Monitoring Task Force led by DILG Region IX through LGOO VI Lizzette Regine R. Boltiador, in coordination with key partner agencies such as DOH IX, DEPDev IX, NNC IX, PIA IX, RCWC, RJJWC IX, DSWD IX, DepEd IX, PNP PRO IX, and KKI.

The activity concluded with a deliberation to address key findings and strengthen local mechanisms for the protection of women and children. This initiative reaffirms DILG IX’s commitment to inclusive and rights-based local governance, with the results serving as a baseline for enhancing LGU policies and services in the Zamboanga Peninsula.