For nearly two decades, the Sidlakan Women Crisis Center established by the City Government of Davao under the supervision of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has been a lifeline for women and children who are victims of violence, offering not only refuge but also the tools to rebuild their lives.
The center provides temporary residential care and operates 24 hours a day, ensures that survivors of gender-based and domestic violence have immediate access to safety and support.
Rosabelle Diacamus, RSW and Sidlakan Crisis Center, head said that the center envisions a society free from abuse, where families are strengthened by respect, care, and unity.
“Nagalantaw ta nga ang atoang katilingban, wala nay pang abuso, ang mission sa atoang center kay matagaan atoang kliyente og dekalidad nga pag serbisyo nga naa sa atoang sulod sa facility. Ang pag respeto, ang pag sabot naa kay dako ang atoang pagsabot sa ilaha, ang confidentiality pod naa dinhaa (We envision a society where there is no more abuse, and the mission of our center is to provide our clients with quality service within our facility. Respect, understanding, and confidentiality are all present, we have a deep understanding of them),” she told Serbisyo Dabawenyo: City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) over Davao City Disaster Radio on June 1, 2026.
The center offers survivors a safe and supportive environment, covering the basic needs of clients with nutritious food, clothing, and secured shelter, while also guiding them through livelihood projects such as crafting bracelets, phone charms, and household items. The income from these activities is set aside to serve as their starting capital when they return to their communities, giving survivors both resources and confidence to rebuild their lives.
Beyond immediate relief, the center also extends education services, health and medical care, psychosocial and psychiatric services, modular sessions for women, legal and para-legal assistance, alternative family care or independent living arrangements, community participation skills training, and referral services.
In 2025, the center sheltered 30 clients with 22 currently under its care.
She further called on families to strengthen vigilance, and with such collective effort, she added, communities can be built on peace and safety, free from abuse and anchored in mutual respect.
“Pakusgan nato ang pag bantay, pag palangga, pag respeto sa atoang pamilya. Para hugpong ang atoang pamilya unya mag tinabangay ta sa pag buo sa isa ka community nga peaceful, luwas sa mga abuso ug mag respetohanay sa matag usa sa atoa (Let’s strengthen the protection, love, and respect for our family. We should work together to build a community that is peaceful, safe from abuse, and where everyone respects each other),” she added. CIO
Written by: N. Malasado
Edited by: A. Nawal