COTABATO CITY (March 4) — In a region where women often navigate conflict, poverty, and limited access to services, a new women-friendly space (WFS) is set to change the landscape — starting in the municipality of Pahamuddin.
Ground was broken on February 24 for a dedicated facility designed exclusively for women and girls, offering not just shelter but services that advocates say are long overdue.
The project is led by Nonviolent Peaceforce and United Nations Population Fund, with funding support from the Japanese government and coordination with the local government and the Bangsamoro administration.
Beyond bricks and beams
Organizers were clear: this is not just another building project.
Under the BABAE (Babaeng Bangsamoro, Arkitekto at Ehemplo para sa Pagbabago) initiative, the space is envisioned as a launchpad for women’s empowerment — tackling sexual and reproductive health, psychosocial support, gender-based violence response, and livelihood training under one roof.
For many women in geographically isolated and conflict-affected communities, these services are fragmented or inaccessible. The WFS aims to centralize support in a safe, welcoming environment.
A protection mechanism — and a statement
Officials from the Ministry of Social Services and Development described the facility as a foundation for stronger protection systems in the area.
Beyond providing counseling rooms and child-minding spaces, the center is designed to affirm women’s rights and amplify their participation in community life — a crucial step in a region rebuilding from years of instability.
What the facility will offer
The standard WFS layout includes:
- A reception and safe welcome area
- Private counseling rooms
- An activity hall for group sessions
- Child-minding space
- Toilets and washing facilities
- A livelihood and skills training area
