Navotas opens protection facility for abused kids

MANILA, Philippines — Navotas City has opened its Child Protection Unit at the city hospital for minors who are victims of abuse.

Inaugurated last week, the facility has an examination room, a playroom and areas where interviews or conferences can be conducted.

Navotas City Hospital medical director and city health officer Christia Padolina told the Inquirer that the facility would accommodate children who were raped or abused.

Instead of being taken to a police station, they would be brought to the facility to be examined by a doctor and psychologist, and interviewed by a policewoman and social worker.

“This is to protect the child. It’s a one-stop shop so the [children] won’t have to repeat [their] statements and relive the trauma. There is a playroom for children to relax and process trauma,” said Padolina.