IJM renews support for human trafficking victims

THE International Justice Mission (IJM) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas (DSWD-7) renewed their efforts to help the victims of human trafficking in the region.

The IJM inked an agreement with the DSWD-7 to further assist the agency in rescuing victims of white slavery, sexual exploitation and other forms of violence involving women and children.

“IJM had been our reliable partner in rescuing trafficked persons for the past years. They helped provide legal services for our clients and logistic support for HerSpace”, said Regional Director Mercedita Jabagat.

HerSpace is a shelter for trafficking survivors operated and maintained by the DSWD.

The center provides initial psycho-social assessment, affidavit taking, legal counseling, birth verification, referrals for medical services, defusing as well as stress debriefing sessions.

The IJM also donated equipment and fixtures to HerSpace that included a 32-inch television with DVD player and stand, 8 cubic refrigerator, 5 air-conditioning units, cabinets, chairs, tables, beds and computers.

The signing and turn-over ceremony held at the DSWD regional office was witnessed by the different local government officials from Metro Cebu and representatives of partner non-government organizations, such as Good Shepherd, My Home, My Father’s House and My Refuge House.