A HOLISTIC HEALING REFUGE AND RESOURCE CENTER FOR

DOMESTIC AND SEXUAL ABUSE WOMEN

REGIE MAE B. ESLAIS

A Research Proposal Presented to the Faculty of the

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements in

December 2023
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A Holistic Healing Refuge and Resource

in Bacolod City

Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

Violence can be found anywhere – either in the corners of the dark, eerie streets

or inside a breath-taking beautiful house. It remains a major global public health and

women's health threat during emergencies that is highly prevalent (Kathyrinetd 2021).

Worldwide, an estimated 30% of women over 15 years old have experienced physical or

sexual intimate partner violence at some point in their lives (World Health Organization

2017). Over 80 countries found that one in three women experiences physical or sexual

violence by a partner or non-partner. Most of this is intimate partner violence (Douglas

2021). According to the Philippine Commission on Women, one in four Filipino women,

aged 15 to 49, has experienced physical, emotional, or sexual violence from their

husband or partner as indicated in the National Demographic Health Survey 2017

released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (Bermudez et al. 2021).

Violence against women is a significant public health problem, as well as a

impacts of violence, particularly intimate partner/domestic violence, on women and their

children, are significant. A society in which there is violence against women cannot be

stable or advanced. The elimination of all forms of violence is key to achieving this hope.

Violence against women can result in injuries and serious physical, mental, sexual and

reproductive health problems, including sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and

unplanned pregnancies (Parmanand S. 2021).

There is a glaring lack of data on whether the socio-economic situations of

rehabilitated women have improved and the current spaces for political advocacy by

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“survivors” are controlled by their rescuers. Services also need to be provided for those

who have experienced violence. The health sectors must play a greater role in responding

to intimate partner violence and sexual violence against women

and havens for women. This center spaces serve as counter spaces to the societal pressure

of the patriarchy, the existing forms of inequity faced by women, and to provide services

and activities that foster connectedness to feminist theoretical frameworks. With

reproductive rights being challenged, existing and continuing pay gaps growing, and

systemic oppression of women thriving, spaces like Women’s Resource Centers must be

highlighted throughout the city (Engle 2022).

The Section 40 of R.A. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their

Children Act of 2004 provides for the mandatory programs and services for victims,

including the establishment of temporary shelters, provision of counselling, psycho-social

services and/or, recovery, rehabilitation programs and livelihood assistance (Republic

Act No. 9262 2004). It is important to have a place of refuge for victim-survivors where

they will not only be provided with shelter, but also other assistance and services that are

needed. Currently, Bacolod City does not have a center that can cater to the needs of

victim-survivors. In line with the commitment of the city to be a safe space to all

Bacolodnons, it is only right that establishing a Women’s Shelter and Resource Center is

significant. Providing a women facility that will not serve only as a temporary shelter for

them but will house different opportunities such as vocational elements and livelihood,

financial, psychological, healing reform and literacy resources for women (Pedrosa

2023).

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It is a hope that these resources will empower the women of the area to redefine

their role in society and start a fresh beginning. It will create an equal opportunities,

rights, and representation for women in all spheres of life. It recognizes the inherent value

and potential of women and seeks to eliminate the barriers that hinder their progress

(Voices of Youth 2023). The Women’s Haven and Resource Center will provide holistic

assistance for domestically and sexually abused women in Bacolod city. In addition to

vocational training areas, the center will also provide psychological counseling and

reforming a Holistic healing center that will provide programs that address the women’s

physical, spiritual and emotional needs. In line with this, digging deeper into the holistic

healing principles provide a relationship between women and space itself (The Willows

at Red Oak 2021).

Objectives of the Study

The primary objective of the study is to provide an architectural design for the

Holistic Healing Refuge and Resource Center for Women in Bacolod City, which will be

constructed on a site that meets all of its requirements. The scheme is in accordance with

the City of Bacolod's need for an immediate response and treatment to domestic and

sexual violence. In order to answer this purpose, the researcher sought to address the

following:

To provide the survivors a holistic healing shelter, develop their skills in support

for their livelihoods and optimism to regain and improve their quality of life.

To establish the connection between women holistic well-being and holistic

healing spaces in architecture.

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To implement the relevant laws, regulations, and specifications required for a

women's refuge and resource center to be succeed in Bacolod City.

To determine the potential architectural solutions that can help develop an

appropriate environment within the facility for fostering holistic healing environments for

women in the areas of:

Site

In this study, it sought to determine the current status of the present site for its

conformity to the land use and zoning regulations of the area. Moreover, the researcher

will also determine the suitable construction for the proposed Refuge and Resource

Center for Domestically and Sexually Abused Women in Bacolod City that could meet

the following considerations in terms of accessibility, availability of power, water, and

communication, safety and peace and order situation, presence of natural forms,

landmarks and features and the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats in the area.

Site Planning and Development

Throught out this paper, the researcher tends to understand the type of site

planning concept that is appropriate for the site for its conformity to the land use and

zoning regulations of the area. Furthermore, the site requirements will also be consider

for its development and the suitable site planning in terms of orientation and circulation

will be utilized.

Building Function

The researcher will be able to gather and establish the required general facilities,

spaces and amenities that is needed for the victims of VAW. Facility design and

standards requirements will also be considered that will meet the rules and regulations in

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the building codes. In addition, the spatial organization of these requirements and the

design considerations will be determine as well.

Building Aesthetics

In this paper, the researcher sought to address the general design concept that is

suitable and appropriate for the structures. Whereas, the aesthetic and philosophy concept

will take into an account in providing a holistic healing environment for the victims of

VAW. Thus, the researcher will also establish the design solution that promotes a holistic

healing and safe community and applied the design architecture character that is suitable

in the proposal.

Building Strength and Durability

In this study, the researcher set up to identify the principles and methods of the

construction to be applied in the project. Materials will also be specified in the execution

of this project and the structural concept and practices that would contribute to the

strength and durability of the structures.

Building Utilities

The necessary engineering and utility systems will be utilized in this study that

provides electrical, plumbing and sanitary. Thus, mechanical and fire protection will be

establish by the researcher as well.

Furthermore, the researcher will tend to present an architectural presentation on

the intended holistic healing refuge and resource center for abused women's design and

configuration.

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Theoretical Framework

The research presented here develops design principles for a holistic shelter and

resource center for abused women with a healing space approach in order to arrive at the

design solution. It comprises guidance on the kind of space a facility requires, taking into

account the need for holistic healing spaces as a design guide. The improvement of public

health will be done more comprehensively with the development of the concept of

creating holistic facilities with healing spaces. The resources allowed the researcher to

have a better comprehension of the research subject.

These frameworks will serve as guide and groundwork of the study, it will include

theories, concepts and philosophies and the likes that will help the study to be idealistic.

Holistic Healing Spaces

Architecture has the power to heal its occupants. People spend a significant

amount of their lives indoors; thus, a trigger for physical and psychological wellbeing,

the significance if architecture must become a subject of considerable interest to all

designers. Spaces must be engaging when needed and comfortable, with abundance of
(Dinkha, S. 2017)
views and natural light .

Holistic healthcare is complete or total patient health that considers the physical,

emotional, social, economic, and spiritual needs of the person, his or her response to

illness and the effect of the illness on the ability to meet self-care units. Holistic Health is

an approach to life. Rather than focusing on illness or specific parts of the body, this

ancient approach to health considers the whole person and how he or she interacts with
Sabar and Djimantoro 2020)
his or her environment ( .

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The Samueli Institute coined the term Optimal Healing Environment (OHE) in

2004 to describe a healthcare system that is designed to stimulate and support the

inherent healing capacity of patients, families, and their care providers

Figure 01. Optimal Healing Environments framework ( Sabar & Djimantoro 2020)

Samueli Institute defines healing as “a holistic, transformative process of repair

and recovery in mind, body, and spirit resulting in positive change, finding meaning, and

movement towards self-realization of wholeness, regardless of the presence or absence of

disease” (Firth et al. 2015). This definition allows for the possibility of healing even

when cure is not possible. While “cured” is a definitive end state, “healing” is a journey

with many possible routes; the role of this literature review is to identify the possible

spatial influencers of healing as a process and experience.

The OHE framework (Illustration 1.1) illustrates the four environments and eight

constructs that make up an OHE. The four healing environments in the OHE framework

—internal, interpersonal, behavioral, and external—were used to further understand the

findings of this literature review and their possible influence on healing.

Healing spaces are defined as the incorporate evidence-based design and healing

principles to optimize and improve the quality of care, outcomes and experiences of

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patients and staff. They support healing intentions and foster healing relationships by

considering the ambient qualities of the space to evoke the positive aura to heal, which

includes the careful consideration of light quality, sounds, air quality, and temperature.

Physical elements and built environment play the important role of healing spaces. A

previous study verified that the ability to integrate nature through gardens or views of

gardens has been shown to reduce stress and improve the cohesion of mind, body, and

spirit. Modern environmental psychology has found that the natural environment has a

restorative benefit for human health in fostering recovery from mental fatigue
(Yang et al. 2019)
.

Figure 02. Elements of Healing Garden Design Concept. (Serdang: Universiti Putra Malaysia)

Furthermore, Shukor (2007) have been focusing the healing element for garden

and has divided the element into two categories which area hardscape and softscape. On

top of that, Illustration 1.2 demonstrate that Samueli Institute have been extend the

healing variable into several domain compared to Illustration 1.1. Therefore, it shows that

the concept still can be evolve in future. Finding shows that this concept is not limited for

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medical treatment purposed. The idea also suite with building design and creating any

environment. The implementation also not only for healthcare or medical scope.

The integration of most of the senses – visual, auditory, olfactory, kinaesthetic,

even vestibular and proprioception – will help complete the highest potential of an
(Hishamuddin Zakaria et al. 2018)
environment to allow for healing to emerge . The role

of architecture and built environment can facilitate healing by careful consideration of the

space ambience. The environment cannot directly cure disease, but by presenting a

natural environment in architecture and the built environment, can increase positive

feelings: comfortable, pleasant and relaxation, which in turn will help the health process

holistically (DuBose et al. 2016). There are several principles of Healing Space in

Architecture namely- home like environment, access to view and nature, light, noise

control, barrier free environment and its appropriate room layout

The research literature has documented both direct effects, at a point in time, of

the built environment on outcomes, such as noise that interrupts sleep, and many

examples where the built environment influences, without direct causation, specific

outcomes such as the relationship between providing comfortable spaces for families and

increased social support. While the research findings have demonstrated connections

between environmental components and positive outcomes, few studies have explored

the association of the physical environment and the individual’s healing experience.

Because of the difficulty in measuring healing over time, it is more typical for research

questions to be framed in the negative, for example, the environmental factors that

increase stress or compromise well-being (Boex & Boex 2012).

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Healing is a process that occurs over time, it is not a sudden discrete event.

Positive change, finding meaning, and realization of wholeness occur in the home,

community, and even in nature. The clinical encounter may not necessarily be where

healing occurs, but it can become an important catalyst for helping the patient move

toward healing within their life space (Schweitzer et al. 2004). Focusing on healthcare

spaces provides a basis for understanding the necessary elements and developing metrics

that can be used to evaluate the broader range of spaces that support the healing process.

Understanding that healing is a complex constellation of experiences, it was more useful

to break out those different elements, the essential preconditions that must be present to

allow healing to occur, and look for research linking space to each of those (Firth et al.

2015).

Figure 03. Healing spaces domains and healing constructs. (DuBose et. al 2016 )

These constructs can be mapped to the inner to external continuum that underlies

the four components of the OHE developed by Samueli Institute. The psychological and

self-efficacy constructs correspond to the internal environment, the social construct maps

to the interpersonal domain, and the functional construct relates to the behavioral and

external environments. The built environment can facilitate healing through a variety of

mechanisms.

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In addition, the article found that these domains could be grouped into four major

categories that characterize healing or a healing experience:

Psychological: Environmental support for managing emotions and

reactions, especially the ability to diffuse aggression and avoid or mitigate anxiety

and depression.

Self-efficacy: Environmental facilitation of a sense of coherence and

control and the ability to adapt to and accept new situations.

Social: Environmental support for developing and maintaining

relationships and connections with others.

Functional: Environmental support for safely performing the basic

activities of daily living with minimal assistance.

Nature and Healing

“Nature is but another name for health…” - Henry David Thoreau]

According to an article; “Healing through Nature by Tim Brieske” Enveloping

ourselves in the rhythms and forms of nature can be transformative and healing. Healing

space uses positive physical design to enhance the individual innate healing potential.

The concept of Healing spaces are spaces that evoke a sense of cohesion of the mind,

body, and spirit. They support healing intentions and foster healing relationships by

considering the ambient qualities of the space to evoke the positive aura to heal, which

includes the careful consideration of light quality, sounds, air quality, and temperature.

Physical elements and built environment play the important role of healing spaces. A

previous study verified that the ability to integrate nature through gardens or views of

gardens has been shown to reduce stress and improve the cohesion of mind, body, and

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spirit. Modern environmental psychology has found that the natural environment has a

restorative benefit for human health in fostering recovery from mental fatigue
(Xue et al. 2019)
.

Healing is a much more difficult outcome to measure in comparison to restoring

health. Healing is a process that takes time and rarely happens as a result of a singular

intervention. Healing is an emergent process, making it difficult to associaten the

experience of healing with a particular cause. It identified 7 specific design strategies that

contribute to healing: single rooms; calm, naturalistic, and domestic artwork or

photographs; east-facing windows; plants; acoustic ceiling tiles; patient rooms removed

from noise-producing unit areas; and a window view of nature (Linebaugh, 2013).

The role of architecture and built environment can facilitate healing by careful

consideration on the space ambience. The environment cannot directly cure disease, but

by presenting a natural environment in architecture and the built environment, can

increase positive feelings: comfortable, pleasant and relaxation, which in turn will help

the health process holistically (DuBose J., MacAllister L., Hadi K., and Sakallaris B.,

2018).

Biophilic Design

Biophilic design incorporates elements of nature into architectural spaces to

improve the overall well-being of occupants. This can include features like natural light,

indoor plants, and views of green spaces. A concept that inherent human connection to

nature. It explains how humans have an innate affinity for nature and how this connection

can positively impact our physical, mental, and emotional health. (Kellert S. and

Heerwagen J., 2008).

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According to Kellert, there are six elements and attributes that go from natural

features to social relationships in cities (as cited in Hidalgo 2014, 538-539). These

elements consist of are namely - environmental features, natural shapes and forms,

natural patterns and processes, light and space, place- based relationships, and evolved

human-nature relationships.

The aim was to establish a work environment conducive to holistic well-being by

creating a positive physical space that supported the mind, body, and spirit for peace, rest,

and vitality. This involved carefully selecting a site for a secure and functional Women's

center, considering needs, safety, security, environmental character, and overall

efficiency. Through design solutions and application of theories and approaches, utilizing

the potentials of positive preexisting conditions, and mitigating the effects of negative

influences can generate the opportunity to enable individuals to achieve greater holistic

health in different ways. These applications shall be applied to and influence the

development of the site, building function, building aesthetics, building strength and

durability, and building engineering and utility system.

These efforts extended to shaping the site, building function, aesthetics, strength,

durability, and engineering and utility systems. The paradigm illustrated the interplay

between inputs, processes, and outputs, guiding the adaptation of data to lead the

researcher toward a successful design solution.

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Figure 04. Schematic Diagram of the Conceptual Framework

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Significance of the Study

This study seeks to highlight the significance of women in the community as well

as the challenges they experience. It will be particularly beneficial to the way women

currently coping in the context of finding responses to these issues. These will develop

into a productive branch of society with the aid of architectural design, together with

agricultural, domestic economic, and livelihood activities.

This finding of this study may be useful to the following organizations, agencies,

and individuals in Bacolod City.

City of Bacolod and the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental

Regarding the subjects and concepts discussed in this study, the findings of this

study can offer relevant data to support future developments within the province.

Whereas the provincial government may be advised on how to assist relevant authorities

or other branches of the government on this subject. Thus, to provide and serve as an

example of a project that could highly contribute to its community through humanitarian

acts and services.

City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD)

The results of this study may be utilized to provide further data and information to

enhance the services of the existing City Social Welfare and Development Office,

thereby catering effectively to the needs of the local government and, in particular,

persons protected by the R.A. 9262 Section 40.

People of Bacolod City

The information presented in this study will provide a direction, support and

create a solution and awareness for the health and family problems, work-life balance and

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time management issues to a healthier and productive resident in Bacolod, and to be able

to provide the community with opportunities that would further uplift their status. This

study will raise awareness of the importance of the center. As to emphasize the urgency

of supplementing the healing process through advanced treatments and services in order

to function socially and achieve reintegration into their families and communities.

Volunteers and Donors

This study aims to provide the general public with an increased awareness of the

situation at the Women's Center, specifically to enlighten those sectors and organizations

that are capable of and willing to aid the center's victims.

Researcher

The concepts discussed in this study will broaden the researcher's knowledge and

awareness in the field of architecture, notably in terms of livelihood support,

rehabilitation, reformation, and holistic healing techniques for women.

The Future Researcher

The conclusion of this Study may serve as a reference that will provide substantial

information for future researchers who may also consider a similar research problem.

Scope and Limitations

This study’s main focus is on offering architectural solutions, specifically for the

facility's planning and design, which will support the holistic recovery of abused women

in Bacolod City. Whereas this proposal takes into consideration the city’s initiative to

establish a women's refuge and resource center.

As this study aims to accommodate abused women in the city, it will only limit its

scope to women, over the age of 18-50 who is domestically and sexually abused under

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Philippine laws. However, considering RA 9262 and other legalities concerning this

violence, management and operations concerns are outside the scope of the responsibility

of the researcher, although they will be considered during the design process. The

researcher will put a focus on the facilities' conceptualization, planning, general aesthetic,

and site development, as well as the psychological effects on users and occupants, to

produce an efficient, holistic environment. As a result, the study contributes to the

development of facilities that are compatible with specialized intervention programs that

adhere to DSWD standards and regulations.

The study is temporally confined during the period from September 2023 to May

2024, therefore due to the limited time, data collection may impact the temporal precision

of findings. This study is subjected to certain limitations due to the sensitive and

confidential nature of the data involved. As a result, access to certain information may be

restricted to protect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals participating in the

study. Any limitations in data disclosure are in accordance with ethical considerations

and legal requirements. The limitations pertaining to data availability will be explicitly

acknowledged, and efforts will be made to ensure that the study draws meaningful

insights within the confines of the information accessible while respecting the

confidentiality constraints.

Additionally, considering the planned project is a government-run institution, it

must adhere to the specifications in RA 9262, and as such, its main objective is to carry

out the law's criteria for fulfilling social responsibilities. It would not be necessary to

include the return on investment since the analysis would solely focus on the expected

project cost and prospective revenue and sustenance sources.

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Definition of Terms

Throughout this paper, there are words that you will come across that may have

different connotation than expected. The researcher provide a series of words with their

definitions as they are used for this context.

Biophilic

Conceptually, the term refers to a holistic practice utilizing nature-based systems,

engineering principles, and design cues to support improves health, wellbeing and

performance as measured through personal biometrics, self-rated mood, and work quality

(Africa et al. 2019).

As used in this study, the terms refer to an approach under Holistic healing design

that could aid the occupants, especially the development and overall well-being of

children through designing facilities that incorporates the elements and principles of

nature.

Domestic Violence

Conceptually, a pattern of abusive can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic,

psychological, or technological actions or threats of actions and behavior in any

relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over

another intimate partner (Office on Violence Against Women 2023).

As used in study, a detrimental impact on women that needs action and

prevention, to provide a safeguarding community and create environments that support

secured and well-being in holistically manner.

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Holistic

Conceptually, the term refers to providing support that looks at the whole person.

The support should also consider their physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing

(Lcsw 2020).

As used in this study, the term refers to establishing a comprehensive center for

women with complete and necessary facilities dedicated to abused women, specifically,

facilities that are in line with the programs and activities needed for intervention.

Refuge

Conceptually, a place or state of safety, protection, or shelter from danger,

hardship, or persecution. It is often used to describe a place where people seek shelter or

solace, especially in times of crisis or distress (Oxford English Dictionary).

As used in study, the term refers to the facility dedicated for the women

rehabilitation; specifically, a safe and productive community that promotes a holistic

healing environment facility for abused women.

Resource Center

Conceptually, can encompass various aspects, including assets, capabilities,

information, and knowledge, which organizations utilize to improve its effectiveness and

efficiency, create and sustain competitive advantage, and fulfill a need or solve a problem

(Bateman and Snell 2018).

As used in study, a place that will house vocational elements, as well as financial,

psychological and literacy resources for women. It is the hope that these resources will

empower the women of the area to redefine their role in society (Brugger 2010).

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Sexually Abused

Conceptually, any act of sexual contact that a person suffers, submits to,

participates in, or performs as a result of force or violence, threats, fear, or deception or

without having legally consented to the act (Duignan 2023).

As used in study, a vulnerability factor that could lead to either potential or actual

harm to the individual's life, with an enormous effect on their mental and physical health,

their dignity, and their future relationships especially in women.

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Chapter 2

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter deals with the methodological procedures by which the data

pertinent to the research problems were collected. In more details, in this part the

researcher outlines how the study was conducted, why it was conducted in this method,

and how the results were acquired through research design and methodology, including

the population and the statistical treatment of data. Furthermore, the discussion also

determines the necessary data collection techniques and the corresponding instruments to

be utilized including methods implemented to maintain validity and reliability of the

instrument, are described.

Research Design

Research design intends to provide an appropriate framework for a study. It is an

essential component of every research study since it is involved with translating research

questions into initiatives (Al-Ababneh 2020). This design always focuses more on what

of the research subject rather than the why of the research subject (Mollel 2020).

The study utilized a Descriptive Research Design Methodology. It can be either

quantitative or qualitative. According to Gall, Gall and Borg (2007) the descriptive

research goal is to describe an event and its characteristics and provide an accurate profile

of individuals, events, or situations (McCombes 2023). In this study the literature

reviews, individual and focus group interviews, and observations are utilized to collect

data in providing architectural solutions to site analysis and development, building

function, building aesthetics, building strength and durability, as well as building utilities.

A descriptive method was selected because it provides an accurate portrayal or account of

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the characteristics, for example behaviour, opinions, abilities, beliefs, and knowledge of a

particular individual, situation or group. It is the most appropriate method to use since the

study is concerned with different areas of architectural design. This design was chosen to

meet the objectives of the study, namely to establish the knowledge and views of

individuals with regard to the refuge and resource center for abused women and and its

treatment regimen through holistic healing.

Research Locale

The study will be conducted in Granada, Bacolod City which fall under the

Western Visayas (Region VI), in the Province of Negros Occidental. Thus, all data and

information will be gathered in government agencies under provincial authority.

Bacolod City will be the location of the majority of the interviews. Whereas, it is

a essential location for the study due to the abundance of related facilities and

accessibility to provincial offices and related authorities that could support this proposal.

Whereas, the city is convenient for the researcher because it is where most of the

respondents resides. All information will be gathered in regional offices that are located

in the city, where the researcher will also approach and reach out NGOs and individuals

who are knowledgeable and experienced about this proposal.

Participants

Within the context of research, a participant or a key informant are someone who

enable researchers to obtain greater access to communities, helping to identify additional

research participants (Bogner et al. 2009). A knowledgeable individuals who contribute a

perspective on a research phenomenon or situation that the researchers themselves lack

(Cossham 2019).

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A number of 4–6 key informant interviews are recommended in the community

readiness literature (Kostadinov et al. 2015). The number of potential key informants

depends on the topic, the existing structures in the community, and the size of the

community. Therefore, this study covers all individuals or things or elements that fit a

certain specification, that means all the items under consideration in any field of inquiry

to contribute (Mollel 2020).

In this analysis, since participants are only limited to utilized individuals who are

essential and relevant, the researcher chosen key informants who can support in

producing the desired outcome of this study. Therefore it is only limited to four sectors,

and the key informants are as follows:

Architect

The first key informant (KI-1) is an architect with an experience and skill in

planning and designing facilities. Throughout the development of the proposal, he or she

mainly provided architectural considerations and feedback and sufficient knowledge in

terms of environmental and hospitality design. The researcher asked four (4) architects in

this study and determined as KI-1a, KI-1b, KI-1c and KI-d .

Registered Social Worker

The second key informant (KI-2) is a registered social worker with first-hand

experience of handling Violence Against Women (VAW). An individual who is fully

aware of the problems, issues, and difficulties of the existing center. This key informant

will serve as a guide to the insights of existing problems that need to be altered.

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in Bacolod City

WCPD Admin Representative

The third key informant (KI-3) is a WCPD representative from Bacolod City, a

person familiar with the number of cases of VAW in the province. This individual will

also be asked questions on how the center will assure the safety and welfare of women, as

well as the possible aid of the issue.

Psychologist

The fourth key informant (KI-4) is an individual that is knowledgeable regarding

the psychological effects of VAW. Whereas, questions will be asked regarding about

what possible aspects should be modified or added to the facilities and services of the

center in addressing and considering the mental health of the survivors.

Sampling Technique

Sampling can be used to make inference about a population or to make

generalization in relation to existing theory. In essence, this depends on choice of

sampling technique (Taherdoost 2016). In order to answer the research questions, it

is doubtful that researcher should be able to collect data from all cases. Thus, there is a

need to select a sample since researchers neither have time nor the resources to analyze

the entire population so applying sampling technique will reduce the number of

population. Whereas, the current research integrated the used of non-probability sampling

techniques namely: snowball sampling.

Snowball Sampling

Snowball sampling is a type of non-probability sampling technique. Non-

probability sampling focuses on sampling techniques that are based on the judgement of

the researcher. Such populations can be hard-to-reach and/or hidden because they exhibit

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A Holistic Healing Refuge and Resource

in Bacolod City

some kind of social stigma, illicit or illegal behaviours, or other trait that makes them

atypical and/or socially marginalized. Snowball sampling is a non-probability based

sampling technique that can be used to gain access to such populations (Parker et al.

2020).

Due to the sensitivity of the study, the researcher ask the initial personnel who

agreed to take part in the research to help identify the survivors of VAW that may be

willing to take part. Typically, the researcher begins with a small group of initial

contacts, who meet the requirements for the study and are requested to participate. In this

context, the willing participants are then requested to identify more contacts who meet

the research criteria and who may be willing participants as well, who in turn recommend

additional possible participants, and so forth. Up until the required number of units have

been found, the process is repeated.

In addition, the researcher used primary and secondary data to utilized in

gathering data. Interview, field observation, survey methodologies and literature review

was established in data collection.

Primary Data

Primary data is information gathered from first-hand experience. Primary data has

not been published yet and is more reliable, authentic and objective. Since primary data

has not been modified or manipulated by humans, its validity exceeds that of secondary

data (Kabir 2016). This data sources included key informants for each case study and it is

an original and unique data, which is directly collected by the researcher from a source

such as observations, surveys, questionnaires, case studies and interviews according to

his requirements (Ajayi 2017).

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Interview

Interview is a way of collecting data as well as to gaining knowledge

from individuals. Kvale (1996), defined interviews as “ … an interchange of views

between two or more people on a topic of mutual interest (McCombes 2023). This

might include questions to guide the informants on talking about certain aspects to be

considered for each subject or sub-topic (Canals 2017). Indeed, the interview conducted

as a part of a discovery process to improve understanding of user needs (Koester et al.

2023).

The interview represents an interaction among three elements: the interviewer, the

interviewee, and the context of the interview (Verma & Mallick 1999). In this section,

characteristics of interview participants (both the interviewer and the interviewee) will be

described briefly. It involves conversation between an interviewer, the one who

coordinates the process of conversation and asks a series of questions, and an

interviewee, who responds to those questions (Shepherd and Griffiths 2021).

Semi- structured interview. A semi-structured interview will be employed in

this study. According to Darmer (1995) the semi-structured interview is neither a free

conversation nor a highly structured questionnaire. Semi-structure interviews provide the

opportunity to regulate the order of the questions and the respondents have the possibility

to expand their ideas and speak in great detail about diverse subjects rather than relying

only on concepts and questions defined in advance of the interview. In addition, a semi-

structured interviews are the preferred data collection method when the researcher's goal

is to better understand the participant's unique perspective rather than a generalized

understanding of a phenomenon (McGrath et al. 2018).

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A Holistic Healing Refuge and Resource

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In this study, the interview will aim to determine the lingering issues and

problems within the environment or the facility dedicated to VAW; recommending

additional facilities with their corresponding intervention programs and their impact or

effectiveness towards victims of VAW; improving living conditions within the facility

through various approaches; and providing architectural solutions that aid in the planning

and design of the proposed facility. To discuss further, the researcher will conduct

interviews with key informants or participants who are essential this proposal. The

responses and insights of the participants are vital to the development of this study.

Field Observations

The observation method is a data gathering that the researcher gains a first-hand

picture of what actually happens in clinical practice (Twycross and Shorten 2016). It is

also a method in which a person observes events and notes information about the features

of the phenomena (Kumar 2022).

The study will make more use of natural observation. In contrast, when observing

behavior in a typical setting, no attempt is made to change the conduct of those being

observed. For the purpose of this study, the researcher will collect data through

observations and excursions to the location and its surroundings. Consequently, it will

also be observed how the province's current facilities operate. The researcher also must

conduct observations to determine how the proposed project might benefit the local

communities. As there are various aspects to consider in the proposal however,

transportation, vegetation, water supply, power supply, public sewage, and the

environment are essential aspects to consider while visiting the site.

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Literature Review

In this paper, literature review is seen as the method in gathering data. Literature

reviews play an important role as a foundation for all types of research. A literature

review is a study of scholarly articles, books, and other sources pertinent to a certain

topic that includes a description, summary, and critical assessment of these works

(Ramdhani et al. 2014). They can serve as a basis for knowledge development, create

guidelines for policy and practice, provide evidence of an effect, and, if well conducted,

have the capacity to engender new ideas and directions for a particular field (Snyder

2019).

Furthermore, this approach will lead the researcher to the most appropriate

responses for the intended project. Accordingly, the researcher ought to have evaluated

the literature concerning VAW. These will serve as the primary resources for information

on the circumstances, issues, and prominent elements that affect the victims. Books,

journals, newspapers, government documents, statistical data, and other sources are used

in this study for convenience purposes and shall be in the form of published materials

from printed or online sources.

Secondary Data

Secondary analysis is the practice of using secondary data in research. It is usually

contrasted with primary analysis, which is the analysis of primary data independently

collected by a researcher. However, secondary data is data that was collected by other

researchers who likely had different research objectives (Crossman 2019). In this case,

through searching databases the researcher obtained material in form of journals and

articles concerning facility background, surveys, organizational structure and policies that

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will able to create a general knowledge in the area before the primary data have and can

be applied.

Library and Online Research

This research applies the use of library and online research; therefore, George

(2008) explains that library research concerns on review and the data interpretation on the

selected articles. Furthermore, library databases are critical since it provide access to a

large amount of information and contains full-text searchable journals and articles and

other types of content, like books, videos, case studies, and images (Linda Hall Library

2023).

In this study the researcher used library research to collect data, and the results

were analyzed based on deductive thinking. Additionally, online research method was

utilized as well utilized whenever data may not be available in printed sources. This

contribute toward cost and time savings and are supremely convenient for the researchers

to gather information for their research topics (Bhat 2023). The scientific part of the

study has been collected at the libraries and through searching the researcher have

obtained readily available published printed materials within the vicinity, such as books,

journals, and government documents and statistical data from concerned authorities, will

be utilized.

Document Analysis

The use of document analysis requires that data be examined and interpreted in

order to elicit meaning, gain understanding, and develop empirical knowledge (Corbin et

al. 2007). However, this process has an important role in establishing credibility because

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the information it contains can provide additional insights that the researchers may find

valuable (IET 2023).

Throughout this study, existing documents will be examined by the researcher due

to the fact that provides context, but with further research. Considering the researcher's

only responsibility is to gather, examine, and interrogate pertinent facts, it is important to

comprehend a certain program and organization better. Whereas, to request authorization

in order to obtain documents and information from outside sources related to the

proposed project. This may include private documents, applicable laws, utilities already

in place, and site conditions that can be determined by getting the necessary information

and maps from the responsible government body.

Research Instruments

Research instrument is a tool or requirement used in collecting the data of the

research. Arikunto (2010) states that research instrument is used as assisting tool to

collect the data in order to facilitate the researcher in conducting the research. The

research instrument may consist of questionnaires, surveys, interviews, checklists or

simple tests (DiscoverPhDs 2020). The choice of which specific research instrument tool

to use will be decided on the by the researcher. It will also be strongly related to the

actual methods that will be used in the specific study. In this research, the researcher used

interview and audio recording/ photography to collect the data.

Interview Guide Questionnaires

Interviewing involves asking questions and getting answers from participants in

order to collect the data. According to Emzir (2010), interview consists of several preset

questions which are addressed to people who become the research subject. Its is

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particularly useful for uncovering the story behind a participant’s experiences and

pursuing in-depth information around a topic. Interviews may be useful to follow-up with

individual respondents after questionnaires, e.g., to further investigate their responses.

(McNamara 1999).

In the context of this study, the researcher generated interview questions as an

instrument in order to support the data that will be used in the paper. The used of semi

structured interview is utilizem, in which the open ended questions are asked in hopes of

obtaining impartial anwers. To address every point in each subject matter the problem

statement will be used as the starting point for each subject.

Audio Recording/Photography

Most researchers use audio recordings for individual interviews as a way to

capture what is said during the interview. When communicating information or delivering

presentations, using such images to assess outcomes before and after an intervention can

be effective (Gujit and Woodhill 2002). In addition, photography also have important

strengths since it helps in overcoming the typically fleeting nature of observation. It will

allow to record behavior in its situational context, allow for reflection, informants,

coding, and use of the behavior or situation for illustration (Basil 2011).

In addition to their analysis of behavior, visual methods can also be used for the

purpose of analysis of environments. To further explain, the researcher will take photos

and audio recordings while collecting data in order to collect information, primarily to

describe and interpret the condition of existing women's centers in terms of site, facility,

surrounding areas, utilities, and other aspects to be included in the study. Additionally,

this technique is being used to record or document interviews that will reveal insights into

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the interpretive side of the equation – examining people’s focus and interpretation of their

behaviors and rituals.

Ethical Considerations

The study of ethics results in the development of social norms, which focus on the

conduct that a person is expected to exhibit in a certain situation. Thus, these behavioral

standards, which influence moral decisions, can allow for a wide range of ethical

considerations (Akaranga and Makau 2016).

Considering the context of this proposal, the issue of safeguarding the private data

of participants in research projects is essential, particularly when dealing with abused

individuals from disadvantaged or socioeconomically complex environments (Canals

2017).

Advocacy and Safety

It is the obligation of the researcher to design a project that does not violate the

rights or safety of interviewees or participants. This is essential in advocating for,

promoting, and safeguarding their rights (Akaranga and Makau 2016).

The researcher will ensure the safety of the participants in this study. Specifically,

encouraging a space for individuals to discuss feelings and views, namely, considering

their well-being through incorporating clear boundaries and the necessary safeguarding

principles.

Voluntary Participation and Informed Consent

A person must knowingly, voluntarily, intelligently, and in a clear and manifest

way, give his or her consent in order to obtain truthful information in research (Akaranga

and Makau 2016). Participants must be fully informed about what is expected of them,

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how the data will be used, and what (if any) consequences may arise. To participate in the

research, individuals must

offer explicit, active, signed consent (Fleming and Zegwaard 2018).

In relation to this study, the researcher will emphasize the importance of

voluntary and informed consent of the participant. Thus, the researcher will thoroughly

explain the purpose of the study and will disclose necessary information to the participant

before proceeding to the interview proper.

Right to Withdraw

Individuals have the right to choose to participate or not. Also, an individual who

initially agrees to participate in a study has the right to withdraw from the study at any

point and the right to refuse to answer any particular question(s) or participate in a

particular set of procedures (Gefenas 2012).

. As the interview commences, a verbal reminder should be reiterated,

emphasizing the participant's freedom to discontinue their involvement at any time if

he/she feels uncomfortable with the topic or questions stated. Regardless of the reasons

for withdrawal, the researcher should respect the participant's decision without judgment.

Privacy, Anonymity and Confidentiality

It is essential that the identities of the participants remain confidential or

anonymous, and the guarantees go beyond safeguarding their names to include the

avoidance of self-identifying statements and information (Fleming and Zegwaard 2018).

In this study, the researcher will ensure that each participant will be granted

complete privacy and anonymity to ensure confidentiality of all data acquired during the

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interview. Thus, it will be clearly emphasized that all information gathered during the

interview will only be used for academic purposes only.

Risk of Harm

The research design needs to consider that the researcher will not ask

uncomfortable questions that may conceal or startle the participants, or lead them to

self-consciousness or self-harm. (Akaranga and Makau 2016).

Whereas, the researcher must exercise and strive to foster social good and avoid

or reduce social harm through research. As to ensure that the researcher will only assess

relevant components towards the organization and participant.

Data Analysis

Data analysis as a process of seeking and organizing the collected data which

have systematically conducted by the researchers to improve their comprehension and

allow them to present what they learned related to the research (Ary 2010). Whereas,

determining the solution to the research question is essential (Ashirwadam 2014).

Moreover, it help to reduce the risks inherent in decision-making by providing useful

insights and statistics (Kelley 2023).

Upon completing database searches and identifying all conceptual and research

articles that address the research questions of this study in relation to the development of

a Women’s center in Bacolod City, the researcher obtained an overview of all identified

articles and information by establishing a method that outlines the findings or details

pertinent to a specific research question.

The research questions addressed in this study are concerned with the

experiences, attitudes, and views of the participants and informants related to necessary

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solutions and approaches that will address the needs of the victims of VAW. In addition,

to plan and design a facility to supplement the intervention processes and livelihood

assistance intended for the survivors of VAW in Bacolod City, with a focus on promoting

a holistic healing environment for the occupants. The data gathered is based on literature

reviews, interviews, discussions, or observations. As with these types of data, the data

analysis process in studies about subjective experiences involves three steps: (1)

Identifying the findings of the study that address your research question (aim), (2)

condensing and summarizing these findings or substantial information, and (3)

Organizing the data into thematic categories relevant to the research question.

The method for assessing the data and related information entailed expounding

them from raw data, referred to as data units, until they formed several categories that

generated responses to the research questions posed for this study.

Data units

These consist of the precise conclusions of any study or any information from any

articles that responds to the research question. Several forms of data or information may

be included during the process, such as direct quotations from study participants; authors'

descriptions, interpretations, and summaries of study outcomes; and results from a

questionnaire or survey, including tables and/or figures.

Summary or condensed version of data units

These are more concise restatements of data units that facilitate efficient

translation to codes.

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Categories

These are significant subcategory classifications based on common denominators

that should take the form of an answer to the research question.

SWOT Analysis

Applying this analysis to enhance the rigor and validity of the study by critically

evaluating both internal and external factors that may impact the research process and

outcomes.

Narrative Analysis

The use of narrative analysis to understand how research participants construct

story and narrative from their own personal experience. That means there is a dual layer

of interpretation in narrative analysis. First the research participants interpret their own

lives through narrative. Then the researcher interprets the construction of that narrative.

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