Blog Post.6

Violence Against Women (VAW) is a pervasive issue that is still affecting millions of women globally, including in the Philippines. According to the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), nearly 1 out of 5 women in the country have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual violence by their current or most recent husband or intimate partner. This alarming statistic shows the importance of initiatives like the National Women’s Month Celebration and the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women.

The of Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act of 2004, also known as Republic Act No. 9262, serves a landmark legislation in the Philippines aimed to address and eradicate VAW. This law provides a framework for protecting women and their children from various forms of violence, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse. It recognizes the need for legal and institutional support systems to safeguard victims and ensure their access to justice and rehabilitation. The significance of R.A. 9262 lies in its approach to combating VAW as it mandates the establishment of protection orders, which can be availed by victims to prevent further abuse. Ensuring the availability of legal assistance, counseling services, and temporary shelters for survivors. Moreover, the law emphasizes the importance of public awareness and education campaigns to change societal attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate violence against women and children.

The Anti-Rape Law of 1997, or Republic Act No. 8353, redefines rape as a crime against persons rather than a crime against chastity, which reflects a significant shift in the legal perspective on sexual violence. This law broadens the definition of rape to include acts of sexual assault beyond penile-vaginal penetration, recognizing various forms of sexual violence. RA 8353 also removes the outdated requirement of proving physical resistance by the victim, acknowledging that consent cannot be given under coercion or threat. RA 8353 shows importance of a victim-centered approach in handling rape cases, ensuring that the dignity and rights of survivors are upheld throughout the legal process. It provides stiffer penalties for offenders and establishes mechanisms for victim support and rehabilitation, reinforcing the state's commitment to protecting individual's from sexual violence.

The Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995, or Republic Act No. 7877, addresses sexual harassment in the workplace, educational institutions, and training environments. This law defines sexual harassment as any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that affects an individual's employment, education, or work performance. RA 7877 mandates the creation of committees on decorum and investigation in workplaces and educational institutions to handle complaints of sexual harassment. It also requires employers and heads of institutions to develop and implement measures to prevent and address sexual harassment, promoting a safe and respectful environment for all individuals. The yearly observance of the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, alongside the National Women’s Month Celebration, is crucial for promoting and protecting the rights of women in the Philippines. Highlighting the significance of laws such as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act of 2004, RA 8353 (The Anti-Rape Law of 1997), and RA 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995), we can raise awareness, educate the public, and advocate for stronger measures to end violence against women. It is a call for action to create a society where every woman can live free from fear and violence.

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Free Policy Briefs Philippine Commission on Women (RA 7877) Philippine Commission on Women (RA 8353)

References: Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. (2004). "Republic Act No. 9262." Retrieved from Official Gazette. Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. (1997). "Republic Act No. 8353." Retrieved from Official Gazette. Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. (1995). "Republic Act No. 7877." Retrieved from Official Gazette.