Break your Silence and End Violence

            Violence is an immoral act that a person can do to any other individual. Eliciting frustrations on women is considered an illicit act. As stated by the Philippine Commission on Women, one of the country's major social issues is violence against women. 17.5% of Filipino women aged 15-49 have experienced any form of physical, sexual, and emotional violence from loved ones, according to the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority. As of 2021, there were 8,399 reported cases of physical violence, 1,791 cases of rape, and 1,505 cases of acts of lasciviousness. It is concerning that VAW continues to exist, even though the issue has been addressed.


Fortunately, laws have been implemented to further lessen the rates of women experiencing violence. RA 11313 (Safe Spaces Act) in 2019 includes all forms of gender-based sexual harassment (GBSH) that are committed in public spaces, educational or training institutions, the workplace, and online spaces. The law states that the types of harassment that are prohibited by the Safe Spaces Act. These include catcalling, sexist, homophobic, misogynistic, or transphobic slurs, unwanted remarks or gestures regarding appearance, persistent requests for personal information, sexual comments or actions, public vulgarity, invasive advances that risk personal safety, persistent sexual jokes, and stalking behaviors that result in fear or emotional distress.

Another law implemented is the RA 8353 (The Anti-Rape Law of 1997). It states that the act of rape is committed when a man engages in sexual intercourse with a woman under specific circumstances, such as the use of force, threat, or intimidation; when the victim is unconscious or unable to reason; through deception or abuse of authority; or when the victim is under 12 years old or mentally incapacitated, regardless of consent. The suspect will be given 20-30 or 6-12 years of imprisonment, depending on how the violent and brutal act was committed. 


The Philippines' determination to address Violence Against Women (VAW) is underscored by legislation such as RA 9262, RA 11313, and RA 10364. Nevertheless, their success is dependent upon a rise of public awareness and the encouragement of community engagement. Educating ourselves and others about these laws is a crucial first step in the development of a society that fosters the empowerment, respect, and protection of women and children. The elimination of Violence Against Women is a collective responsibility that requires the collaborative efforts of the government, organizations, and individuals. Let us collaborate to disrupt the cycle of violence and guarantee that every woman can live without fear and abuse.




References: 

Blogger: <https://www.blogger.com>

Violence Against Women: <https://pcw.gov.ph>

Republic Act No. 11313: Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law): <https://pcw.gov.ph>

RA 8353 (The Anti-Rape Law of 1997): <https://pcw.gov.ph>

Hand drawn international day for the elimination of violence against women illustration: <https://www.freepik.com>

The "S" Word: <https://www.theodysseyonline.com>
Together we rise: <https://i.pinimg.com>

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