Faith in Action: Iisang Nasyon, Iisang Aksyon

By Sem. Samuel Jed Llorin

What better way to increase awareness and promote the value of human dignity than to acknowledge those who strive to alleviate human trafficking -a worsening global social issue today?

Last July 30, the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) recognized our very own Rev. Fr. Jhonan’z DC. Vibar, Chairperson of the Cáceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP), as one of the national awardees for his efforts in the prevention of and advocacy against human trafficking. His leadership allowed for numerous collaborations between the Church, local government agencies and non-government organizations. Several years of this commendable teamwork paved the way for his nomination and bestowal of the said award at the national level, together with other individuals and organizations at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila.

Fighting human trafficking in the Philippines is no easy task. It takes more than just an agency! That is why the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) was created under the Department of Justice, to bring together all sectors -law enforcers, social workers, educators, faith communities, and citizens -to work as one. Guided by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, IACAT understands that trafficking is more than just a crime: it is a wound in our society. And the journey towards healing involves everyone. It takes compassion, coordination and courage to stand up for those whose dignity has been stolen.

Thus, to recognize these brave efforts, IACAT launched the Break the Chains Awards—a national tribute to individuals and organizations who go above and beyond to protect others.

Through the leadership of Fr. Vibar, COWCP continues to stand in the frontlines -raising awareness, shaping hearts, and walking with partners like Arise Foundation, Know Your Rights Philippines, World Vision Philippines, and the Naga City Justice Zone in trying to create a safer environment for women and children. Indeed, COWCP has proven that advocacy rooted in love can change lives and that the Church will never be silent in the face of injustice.

As one of the social arms of the Church, it is imperative that COWCP be committed to social justice and the protection of the poor and the vulnerable. Fr. Vibar, in his privilege speech, said: “The Church, rooted in faith, compassion, and mission, must and can do something. We always believe na kahit kulang, kahit walang budget, may magagawa.”

Truly, the second half of his statement bore itself on me -for indeed the Church’s mission advances not only because of its resources, but because of its resourcefulness. The limitedness of resources is overcome by the abundance of individuals who strive to work together to foster change.

National Awardees and officials pose for a commemorative photo during the 2025 Break All Chains Awards, led by the Department of Justice–Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (DOJ-IACAT). Among them is Rev. Fr. Jhonan’z Vibar of the Archdiocese of Caceres (5th from left), honored for his exceptional work in the Prevention and Awareness category for his faith-driven advocacy against human trafficking. (Sem. Samuel Jed Llorin)