Beyond Our Walls: The Power and Possibility of Family Healing for Survivors of Sex Trafficking and Abuse in the Philippines
Rose Ann O. Ababa, RSW; Jedaia Rose M. Doñoz, RPm; Kimberly M. Navarro, BA & Jaden Kaye Empuerto, BSW | September 19 | 3:15-4:15 pm EDT
Topic: International, Programming | Knowledge Level: Beginner
The Philippines, a highly collective country, heavily relies on relationships and family ties not only for social support but also to promote overall psychological well-being. For Filipino survivors of sexual trafficking and abuse, comprehensive and holistic aftercare service means considering the role their families have in healing and restoration. My Refuge House (MRH), a nonprofit organization that delivers residential and community-based services to survivors of commercial sexual exploitation, online sexual exploitation of children, and sexual abuse, has long held the belief that families should serve as both partners and recipients of care. Born out of this understanding is the creation of an integral sub-program, the Family and Community Development Services (FCDS), which focuses on critical aspects of family work, namely restoration, reunification, reconciliation, and reintegration. Through intentional relationship-building efforts and the implementation of trauma-informed service plans, MRH walks hand in hand with the families of survivors as they prepare for the successful return of their daughters, sisters, nieces, grandchildren, etc. This presentation will highlight the challenges that come with helping families navigate the complexities of trauma from trafficking and abuse. It will also shed light on the necessity of facilitating reconciliation between the survivor and their perpetrating family members to meet legal and court conclusions that best serve the interests of the survivors (e.g., plea bargains designed to avoid re-traumatization). Lastly, the session aims to delve into the vulnerabilities Filipino families are susceptible to and what initiatives MRH has introduced to promote strength and sustainability.
Presentation Objectives:
• Provide a brief overview of the prevalence of commercial and online sexual exploitation of children in the Philippines and the role families play in the abuse experienced by survivors
• Discuss the importance of partnering with families in the healing and restoration of survivor-participants
• Describe MRH’s family and community engagement and the several initiatives introduced that are designed for the survivor’s successful reintegration