Assessment of Interagency Procedures and Performance in Handling Violence Against Women and Children: A Comparative Study of PNP, DSWD, and Barangay

Abstract

This research examines the comparative application of procedures and service performance of three frontline agencies—the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and barangay officials—in the context of responding to incidents of violence against women and children (VAWC). The study employed a quantitative, descriptive-comparative research design to evaluate the operational effectiveness and compliance with procedural protocols of each agency, taking into account the complexity and urgency of VAWC incidents. A validated, structured survey questionnaire was administered to a combined total of 268 respondents, all of whom were directly involved in managing VAWC cases. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA were implemented to investigate variations in agency perceptions.  The results indicated that all three agencies reported high procedural compliance, with Barangay officials scoring slightly higher than the other agencies as a result of their successful inter-agency coordination and prompt response at the community level. The DSWD was valued for psychosocial support, while the PNP was valued for protective service delivery. Moreover, service performance was rated highly across categories. Results of the ANOVA show that there are no statistically significant differences in the manner respondents rate their agency's procedures (p = 0.360) and performance (p = 0.111), signifying a shared understanding and commitment to institutional responsibilities. Operational challenges were noted through qualitative feedback despite positive ratings, such as inconsistent training, poor hotline response, and fragmented follow-through. The interagency response can be improved by applying standardized SOPs, joint capacity-building programs, and a community-based monitoring system, as suggested by these findings. Overall, the study underscores the need for embracing a systems-based approach that ensures trauma-informed, synchronized, and victim-centered interventions at all service delivery levels.