Philippines launches first Women and Children’s Crisis Center

MANILA, Philippines — A landmark partnership among Congress, government agencies, the city government of Muntinlupa and the private sector formally launched the country’s first Women and Children’s Crisis Center on Aug. 3 at The Haven for Women Compound in Alabang, Muntinlupa.

The pioneering initiative underscores President Marcos’ priority to strengthen mental health services, as highlighted in his State of the Nation Address, while expanding protection and holistic support for vulnerable sector members.

The center is spearheaded by Pangasinan 4th District Rep. Gina de Venecia and Bulacan 4th District Rep. Linabelle Villarica, co-presidents of the Association of Women Legislators Foundation, Inc., together with project chairperson Bukidnon 3rd District Rep. Audrey Zubiri and the Lady Legislators of the House of Representatives of the 20th Congress, in partnership with the Senate.

Joining the collaboration are the Department of Social Welfare and Development led by Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the Department of Health under Secretary Brix Pujalte, the Department of Public Works and Highways led by Secretary Vince Dizon, the Congressional Spouses Foundation Inc. headed by Ann Dy and the local government of Muntinlupa under Mayor Ruffy Biazon.

Once operational, the center will provide integrated psychiatric and psychological care, crisis intervention, trauma-informed treatment, rehabilitation and recovery programs in a safe, healing and dignified environment.

The facility was designed by Archion Architects, led by renowned architect Dan Lichauco, whose portfolio includes major health care projects such as the Philippine General Hospital Felicidad Sy Multi-Specialty Building, the Asian Hospital and Medical Center Tower 2 Expansion, the National Children’s Hospital and the Overseas Filipino Workers’ Hospital in Pampanga.

De Venecia underscored the importance of the project, saying, “Mental health is a fundamental human right, and every Filipina deserves access to compassionate, dignified and world-class care during her most vulnerable moments.”

She added, “This Women and Children’s Crisis Center embodies our collective commitment to protect women, restore hope, strengthen families and ensure that no woman faces mental health challenges or crisis alone.”

Emphasizing the long-term impact of the initiative, Villarica stated, “Beyond providing immediate refuge, our goal is to offer a comprehensive sanctuary where survivors receive the full spectrum of care they need to heal and rebuild their lives.”

“Through this multi-sectoral endeavor, we are setting a new benchmark for public care and legislative action in defense of women and children,” she added.

Construction will proceed at The Haven for Women compound in Alabang, with targeted completion in 2027.

Beyond serving Metro Manila, the project is envisioned as a national model for similar centers to be replicated across the regions, expanding access to specialized mental health and rehabilitation services nationwide.