LEYTE 1st District Representative and House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has expressed strong support for the government’s new initiative to provide financial compensation to child victims of violent crimes, highlighting the state’s vital role in ensuring their recovery and long-term well-being.

The program stems from a recently signed agreement between the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). It establishes a referral system allowing child victims in residential care facilities to access financial assistance through the DOJ’s Victim Compensation Program (VCP).

“Our young ones deserve to be cared for, nurtured, and protected. When they become victims of cruel, violent crimes, it is the government’s duty to ensure they receive the support they need for healing and recovery,” Romualdez said.

The VCP provides monetary aid to victims of crimes such as rape, torture, trafficking, enforced disappearance, and online sexual abuse. This financial support helps cover treatment, therapy, education, and legal expenses.

“By making it easier for them to access compensation, we give young survivors a real chance at a fresh start—with the government standing firmly by their side,” Romualdez added.

He vowed to champion legislative measures that would institutionalize the program and secure sufficient funding for its continued implementation, stressing Congress’s responsibility to protect vulnerable children.

“Ang mga batang biktima ng marahas na krimen ay aming kinakatawan sa Kongreso. Nararapat lamang na mabigyan sila ng sapat na suporta para sa kanilang pagbangon at paghilom,” he said.

Under the agreement signed earlier this week, the DSWD will refer children under its care to the DOJ’s VCP, streamlining the process for victims to receive assistance.

Romualdez welcomed the inter-agency partnership as a timely and compassionate response, saying it provides not only financial relief but also hope and dignity to survivors.

“By helping them begin their journey to recovery and reintegration into society, we are fulfilling our duty as public servants and giving these children the chance to dream again and reach for a better future,” he concluded.