DSWD, DOJ sign MOA for child victim support

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) signed a memorandum of agreement on Tuesday at the DOJ's main office in Manila to establish a referral system for child victims of violent crimes.

This initiative aims to refine and simplify the process of providing support to children's recovery by covering expenses such as treatment, therapy, legal fees, education, and basic needs through the DOJ’s Victim Compensation Program (VCP).

The MOA defines a child victim under DSWD-managed residential care facilities as individuals below 18 years old who are unable to fully take care of themselves due to abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation, or discrimination.

Violent crimes covered include rape, offenses committed with malice resulting in death or serious physical or psychological injuries, torture, enforced disappearance, trafficking, online sexual abuse or exploitation and others.

Under the agreement, the DOJ Bureau of Claims will evaluate and process claims for victims referred by the DSWD, ensuring that every minor victim receives benefits at the right time with compassion and care.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said the new compensation referral system restores hope for child-victims, providing them with necessary interventions toward healing, recovery, and reintegration.

The agreement also mandates sharing of relevant information by both parties to ensure smooth processing of compensation.