9 child abuse, neglect cases logged since Sinlaku; DYS urges community vigilance as PSS remains out

The Division of Youth Services has taken in nine new child abuse and neglect cases in the weeks following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, a figure officials say is unusually high for such a short period.

DYS administrator Vivian Sablan said the agency has continued operating despite strained resources and disaster response duties, emphasizing that child protection remains a priority.

“Since we started rolling out again after the all-clear was given, we’ve had to bring in an additional nine children,” Sablan told Marianas Press during an interview at the Kagman Community Center last April 29.

She noted the number is not typical. “Not a usual number in two weeks, no.”

The children were placed in the DYS emergency shelter, with staff working to find longer-term solutions such as kinship or foster care placements. Sablan said the emergency shelter is only a temporary stopgap while more stable arrangements are secured.

Beyond shelter operations, DYS is maintaining its mandate to respond to abuse reports even as families cope with post-typhoon stress, displacement, and limited resources. Sablan said cramped living conditions and the absence of school increase risks for children.

“We are going to continue to respond to calls… and make sure that, first of all, everybody is safe and away from harm,” she said, adding that services continue “even though they might be limited.”

Child Protective Services official Mariah Mangloña said the agency is seeing heightened stress among families, which can put children at greater risk.

“The work doesn’t stop,” she said.

Mangloña said DYS is focusing on immediate safety needs, including ensuring access to basic necessities such as water, while continuing to monitor cases and support families. More specialized services like counseling are currently limited.

With public schools still closed, DYS has also lost a key reporting partner for abuse cases, prompting officials to call on the public to step in.

“So we kind of just lost our main reporter there,” Sablan said. “So we just ask the community to look out for one another.”

Mangloña echoed that appeal, reminding residents that reporting concerns can help protect vulnerable children.

“DYS is still here… child abuse is everyone’s responsibility,” she said.

As shelters transition with the anticipated reopening of Public School System campuses, DYS is preparing additional facilities to house displaced residents. Sablan said the agency is working to reopen the Tanapag Youth Center and the Office on Aging Center as long-term shelters to augment the Kagman Community Center they’re current operating from.

At present, about 53 individuals are housed at the Kagman site, with more transfers expected as school-based shelters close.

Despite the challenges, Sablan said support from partner agencies and volunteers has helped keep children engaged through activities and mental health services.

“I think we’ll just all take it a day at a time… and to know that we’re here for one another,” she said.

Residents can report suspected child abuse and neglect cases by calling 911 in emergencies or contacting DYS at (670) 285-2780 or 2781.