Quota International, IBP to assist abused women, children

CEBU, Philippines – The Quota International Metro Cebu (QIMC) has partnered with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines - Cebu City Chapter to give free legal assistance to abused women and children.

The two groups signed a Memorandum of Agreement yesterday afternoon for the Legal Aid Service Projects, which aim to support the Kahupayan Center, a shelter for abused women and children, as well as to educate women on their rights via online chat and email. Legal forums will also be made available online through which victims can seek help and register their sentiments.

The project is anchored on the theme, "Enhancing Access to Justice through Legal Aid and Legal Education."

Lawyer Maria Dee Seares-Del Rosario, president of QIMC, said they came up with the project to help those "who cannot afford or have limited access to legal services, particularly the disadvantaged women and children and persons with disability."

"These are aimed to improve their access to legal services and justice; to promote and protect their rights; and to raise the level of awareness about the laws on women, children, and persons with disability," Del Rosario said.

IBP - Cebu City Chapter President Michael Yu echoed this statement. He said the IBP can provide lawyers to victims, especially when a case reaches the court.

"We are willing to help those unfortunate women who are battered by their husbands, live-in partners and among others," he said. (FREEMAN)