3rd Bicol networking against Human Trafficking organized by COWCP

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat

“The fight against human trafficking is not just a social issue, but a spiritual battle too. Let us do our part.”

With these words, Fr. Jhonan’z Vibar, Chairperson of the Caceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP), addressed the more than 80 participants who attended the 3rd Bicol Stakeholders Network against Human Trafficking held at the Archbishop Leonardo Legaspi Hall of the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia in Naga City last July 27, Sunday.

In his message, Vibar emphasized the importance of both prayer and action, underlining that social action must be rooted in devotion. In addition, he urged everyone to pray to Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Ina, and to allow her to be one’s guide in doing ministry work. His message also stems from the theme of the event: “Ina nin pagláom, kasurog niato gabos. Breaking exploitation through faith and action”.

Keynote speakers for the said event were Hon. Cecilia De Asis and Atty. Maria Jela Moran, LPT; both discussed not just human trafficking but also gender-based violence and cybercrime, respectively.

Fiscal Charmine Pontanal-Pares provided updates in Bicol from the Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking, while Professor Gloria San Antonio presented the Advocacy Statement, which concluded the event.

Partners and collaborators present represented the following institutions: Naga City Justice Zone, Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking, Know Your Rights Philippines, Naga City Bantay Familia, and Caceres Commission on Communications. Participants also included delegates from the Dioceses of Daet and Libmanan.

The said event was also organized in time for the United Nations 11th World Day against Trafficking in Persons, observed every year on July 30.

Organized by the Caceres Office on Women and Children Protection, the 3rd Bicol Stakeholders Network against Human Trafficking was held last Sunday, July 27, at the Archbishop Legaspi Hall of the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia, Naga City. (Photos by Natalie Hazel Quimlat)