The Japanese Embassy in Manila has provided approximately P8.1 million in funding assistance for two projects that aim to empower Filipino women, particularly those who are victims of violence.

Japanese Ambassador Makoto Katsura signed a grant contract with the Western Samar Development Foundation Inc. (WESADEF), headed by Bella de los Reyes, for the “Project for Construction of Women Resource Center in Calbayog City.”

WESADEF, a non-government organization (NGO) based in Calbayog City, Western Samar, has been providing social welfare services to victims of violence in Samar since 1987. However, due to the shortage of shelters for victims and training facilities in the city, WESADEF has had limitation in providing necessary services for women.

The project, amounting to US$ 96,603 or approximately P4.5 million, is expected to benefit about 60 women in Calbayog City.

Under the project, a two-story social welfare center will be established. The center is expected to provide psychosocial interventions, reproductive health services and various skills trainings.

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) statistics show that violence against women increased to 22 percent in 2007 in Samar alone.

Likewise, the Japanese government provided US$78,795 or approximately www3.6 million grant for a project which seeks to enhance capacity building among women and their Japanese-Filipino children.

The project, “Building Capacities of Women and their Japanese – Filipino Children,” will be spearheaded by the Development Action for Women Network (DAWN).

Under the project, the Japanese government will provide sewing and handloom weaving machines as well as funding for trainings and seminars.