ANGELES CITY – The Angeles City Local Government Unit (LGU), under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin Jr., held a strategic partnership meeting with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to strengthen support for victims and survivors of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) through Project SAFE.
Project SAFE, short for “Supporting and Advocating for Freedom and Empowerment”, is a multi-agency initiative designed to provide holistic assistance to OSAEC victim-survivors. The program includes interventions such as psychosocial support, legal assistance, shelter, and rehabilitation services.
The partnership meeting aimed to align the efforts of the Angeles City government and DSWD in implementing the project at the local level. It also focused on establishing clearer coordination mechanisms for responding to OSAEC cases and reinforcing protection protocols for vulnerable children in the city.
Mayor Lazatin reiterated his administration’s full commitment to addressing OSAEC, citing the urgency of the issue and the importance of proactive measures. “Children’s safety is a top priority. We are committed to supporting survivors and preventing further abuse through coordinated action,” he said during the meeting.
The DSWD expressed appreciation for Angeles City’s initiative in combating OSAEC and emphasized the need for continuous collaboration with LGUs in ensuring effective implementation of victim support programs. They also offered technical support and training for local frontline workers.
Representatives from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), Gender and Development Office, and local law enforcement units were present to discuss strategies and protocols. The meeting concluded with plans to conduct community-based awareness sessions and capacity-building programs for barangay officials.
With Project SAFE, Angeles City reaffirms its stance against online exploitation and strengthens its resolve to create a safer, more protective environment for children. The city government continues to call on communities and families to stay vigilant and report any suspected cases of OSAEC.
