The Haven for Women (HFW) under the DSWD Field Office-NCR welcomed representatives from the BARMM Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS) for an institutional learning and benchmarking visit under the BABAE Project, today (June 9).

The initiative served as a platform to share best practices in managing and operating women’s crisis centers. Ms. Romina Sta. Clara, Head of the UNFPA Mindanao Sub-Office, delivered a message on behalf of UNFPA Country Representative Ms. Neus Bernabeu, emphasizing their commitment to advancing sexual and reproductive health rights and ending gender-based violence in BARMM. BARMM-MSSD Director Hasim M. Guiamil also provided an overview of the Ministry’s services for vulnerable sectors.

This benchmarking activity aims to gather evidence-based operational insights to support the development of a comprehensive, culturally responsive Operational Manual for the BARMM Women’s Crisis Center, ensuring quality, survivor-centered care.

DSWD NCR Assistant Regional Director for Operations Bienvenido V. Barbosa Jr. welcomed the delegates and thanked them for choosing the Haven for Women as a partner, underscoring the power of cross-regional collaboration. The successful visit was facilitated with the support of Center Head Ms. Hermina Arcanghel and Regional Center Coordinator Ms. Jhonabie Villamor.