THE Visayan Forum Foundation has launched the Voice of the Free, a new foundation that will continue the organization’s projects and programs against human trafficking, exploitation and modern slavery.
Also known as VF Foundation, the new entity was introduced recently in rites held in Metro Manila. It was attended by partners from different government agencies and private organizations.
Established in 1991 by Negrense Cecilia Flores Oebanda and several others, Visayan Forum is known for innovations in addressing modern-day slavery, especially human trafficking and domestic servitude.
It has partnered with over 200 local and international socio-civic groups, non-government organizations, government agencies, private institutions and civil society.
In her message, Human Rights Commissioner Gwendolyn Pimentel-Gana lauded all the efforts of the Visayan Forum.
She also recognized the determination and dedication of its founder to empower Philippine communities in fighting against trafficking and slavery.
Ahmma Charisma Lobrin-Satumba, executive director of the Institute for Labor Studies of the Department of Labor and Employment, thanked the foundation for being in the forefront of pushing for Republic Act No.10361, or the Domestic Workers Act of 2013.
Under the new Board, Oebanda will serve as the foundation’s chief executive officer and will oversee international partnerships.
Former Bacolod City councilor Jocelle Batapa-Sigue serves as chairman of the board and focal for advocacy program. While pastor and lawyer Joshua Santiago sits as corporate secretary handling policy and research.
Sr. Cecilia Espenilla, OP is the treasurer and focal for protective care services.
Also part of the Board are brand and public relations specialist Fortunato Agbayani, who is tasked to oversee prevention programs and projects, and Sol Tan-Gatue, advocate for women empowerment, for resource mobilization.
Oebanda said the Visayan Forum has touched the lives of almost 30,000 children and Filipinos through its various services.
The VF Foundation’s vision is a society where people are free, protected and empowered to explore opportunities without the risk of exploitation and slavery, the organization in a press release, said.
Its major goals are to prevent human trafficking through community watch and other strategies, protect victims and potential victims and transform their lives through holistic interventions, promote policy and conduct solutions-based research, and partner and empower the youth and other stakeholders, among others, it added.