ANGELES CITY — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has awarded Angeles City a 110% functionality rating for its Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (LCAT-VAWC) — the highest adjectival rating given to LGUs nationwide.

This recognition is a result of the city’s strong and consistent efforts under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. in implementing programs that protect women and children from violence and trafficking.

According to the inter-agency monitoring team, the city’s performance has reached a “high level of functionality,” based on a recent audit.

“We will not tolerate such wrongdoings in our city,” Mayor Lazatin declared, adding that trafficking and VAWC pose serious threats to the welfare of children and the future of Angeles City.

Since the beginning of Mayor Lazatin’s term, the Gender and Development Office, in partnership with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO), has assisted over 6,200 individuals through VAWC-related concerns.

Mayor Lazatin had earlier directed all 33 barangays to activate their VAWC desks, ensuring frontline support is available at the grassroots level. He also regularly convenes the Local Council for the Protection of Children to review and enhance child protection programs.

Mayor Lazatin expressed his gratitude to the DILG for recognizing the city’s commitment and to all partner agencies for working together toward the shared goal of eradicating illegal trafficking and violence against women and children in Angeles City.