The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) participates in the launch of the Tri-City Special Justice Zone in Northern Mindanao, which includes Cagayan de Oro City, Iligan City, and Ozamiz City.

Representing the Department at the event were Assistant Secretary for International Affairs, Atty. Elaine F. Fallarcuna, DSWD FO X Assistant Regional Director for Administration, Salmah M. Basher, and staff from the Community-Based Section. The event was held simultaneously in the three cities, with Cagayan de Oro City serving as the primary hub.

The Tri-City Justice Zone is a pioneering initiative launched by the Justice Sector Coordinating Council, composed of the Supreme Court, the Department of Justice, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, that aims to combat the online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) in these cities.

These three cities were selected due to their classification as the top areas in Region X with the highest incidence of OSAEC cases from 2020 to 2023. Additionally, they have recorded the most convictions for trafficking in persons, OSAEC, and related offenses since 2003.

DSWD is committed to providing comprehensive social services and support to victim-survivors of OSAEC. The Department focuses on case management, psychosocial interventions, collaboration with justice sector agencies, and ensuring referrals to appropriate services. Moreover, DSWD is dedicated to ensuring that the justice zone is not only efficient but also responsive to the social and welfare needs of vulnerable individuals.