Protect the unprotected

 Protect the unprotected 

Violence against women and children (VAWC) is one of the most despicable things of our world. Any act of violence against those that are the most vulnerable is one of the lowest things a person could do. Thus, a series of Republic Acts were introduced, including but not limited to:

RA 8353 (The Anti Rape law of 1997)

This law updates and modernizes the Revised Penal Code provisions on rape and redefines it as a crime against persons rather than a crime against chastity. It also broadens the definition of rape and strengthens the protection of victims. Key points include:

1. Expanded definition of Rape - sexual intercourse committed without consent

2. Marital Rape -  states that just because the perpetrator is married to the victim does not mean they cannot initiate Rape

3. Penalties - Life imprisonment or in some cases the death penalty (before it was abolished in the Philippines)

RA 7877: Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995

This law aims to prevent and address sexual harassment in the workplace, schools, and training institutions. It puts emphasis on the abuse of power or influence in situations where one party has authority over another. Key points:

1. Definition of Sexual Harassment- unconsenting sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other sexual behaviors in a work, education, or training environment.

2. Applicability- Workplace: Includes actions by superiors, colleagues, or even subordinates when linked to job conditions, promotions, or creating a hostile work environment.

Schools/Training Institutions: Involves acts by teachers, instructors, or trainers towards students or trainees.

3. Liability- employers, school administrators, or heads of institutions are responsible for creating mechanisms to prevent sexual harassment, such as grievance committees. Failure to act on complaints may lead to additional liabilities for the institution.

References:

https://thevalleylawgroup.com/blog/spousal-abuse/

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/anti-rape-ordinance-2020-rabia-saghar-advocate-high-court

https://norrismclaughlin.com/njelb/personnel-practices/annual-sexual-harassment-prevention-training-now-required-in-new-york/