Survivor to Advocate

Nothing we do is done in a vacuum. It takes many people all doing their part to see transformation happen in the way of Jesus. He calls us to partner with Him and with each other to see His kingdom expand.  

Partnership Ignites Hope 

One of World Hope International Philippines’ partners is the Eastern Visayas Medical Center – Women and Children Protection Unit (EVMC-WCPU). EVMC-WCPU provides comprehensive services for children and women who are survivors of abuse. Their work includes intake, interviews, immediate safety assessments, psychological first aid, psychological assessments, and access to medicolegal services. Beyond these services, EVMC-WCPU organizes support groups for child survivors, creating safe spaces for healing and recovery. 

Through this partnership, two social workers and one psychologist from EVMC-WCPU were trained in HILOM (a psychosocial intervention designed by World Hope International for child survivors of abuse). Since the start of the program, WHI has trained a total of 258 social workers and psychologists across partner organizations.

HILOM Sessions Give Hope 

Jam’s story (a name used to protect her identity) is shaped by pain and perseverance, as well as by healing, purpose, and hope. Jam is one of many survivors of abuse whose journey demonstrates the power of timely intervention, compassionate partnerships, and consistent care.  

At the time of her rescue, Jam was still a student. Despite the demands of school, she attended the HILOM sessions consistently. Even when a typhoon struck their community and destroyed their house, Jam remained committed to attending each session. Amid loss and disruption, she continued showing up for her own healing. 

HILOM helped Jam manage her emotions, communicate more effectively, process her feelings, and recognize both her vulnerabilities and strengths. It gave her language for her pain and practical tools to move forward. Most importantly, it helped her rebuild a sense of self that had been shaken by trauma. 

Jam’s Calling 

After completing the HILOM sessions, Jam returned to her studies with renewed clarity and purpose. She was drawn to social work, gaining a deep understanding of the role as not only a profession, but as a calling. Her own experience of abuse motivated her to succeed in her studies so she could help children overcome their experiences of abuse in healthy ways.  

After finishing her degree, she passed the Social Work Licensure Examination and placed among the Top 10 nationwide. Today, she is a registered social worker, serving children who have experienced abuse as well as people from all walks of life who need support, guidance, and hope. From survivor to advocate, Jam embodies the difference holistic care over the long term can make. 

Read more stories of hope from World Hope International Philippines.

Written by Mariel Aira Mateo (WHI Philippines)