The talk show and public service program “CIA with BA” once again highlighted the critical role barangay officials play in protecting the rights of women and children.

During the “Yes or No” segment, Jabo of the Mariteam posed the question of whether barangays have the authority to issue protection orders.

Senator Pia Cayetano responded affirmatively, explaining that under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (Republic Act 9262), barangay officials are empowered to issue Barangay Protection Orders (BPOs) to prevent further abuse.

“When this law was made, na-realize ng lawmakers na sa barangay pa lang [dapat]… Hindi pwedeng ang court lang ang magbibigay ng protection order dahil bago ka makarating sa korte, matagal pa,” Senator Pia explained.

Senator Pia also underscored the value of the “Yes or No” segment, stating, “Ang request ko talaga sa segment nating ito ay may matutunan tayong lahat.

“For many years, lagi akong may exhibit sa Senate on VAWC, and I give talks all over the country. I’m so happy we can do it here in my other home, ‘CIA with BA’, because it is our goal to educate people about their rights in the law and to also make us better human beings,” she added.

She concluded by emphasizing the need for awareness regarding different forms of abuse: physical, sexual, psychological, and economic. “Napakahalaga na malaman ng lahat ang iba’t ibang uri ng pag-aabuso laban sa kababaihan at kabataan,” she said. “CIA with BA” continues the legacy of the late Senator Rene Cayetano and airs every Sunday at 11 p.m. on GMA7, with replays on GTV the following Saturday at 10:30 p.m.