THEMATIC Q2

 "The 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women and the Significance of the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Act"

The Philippines annually holds the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), which spans from November 25 to December 12. This campaign is an expression of the country's commitment to raise awareness on gender-based violence, as it affects one in three women around the world. In the Philippines, the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) found that nearly one in five women have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual violence from an intimate partner. Laws like the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Act of 2004 must be the focus for this campaign because it relates directly to violence in intimate relationship contexts. The law frames protection against physical, emotional, and sexual abuse inflicted on women and children through protection orders and other means. These orders ensure that offenders do not approach victims, providing them with a safe opportunity to seek justice without having to fear retaliation. This act also provides for the provision of VAWC courts and VAWC desks in every police station to ensure instant attention and support for a survivor as they navigate their way through the legal system.

One of the major laws which has shaped the fight against sexual violence is the Anti-Rape Law of 1997, or Republic Act No. 8353. This law redefined rape to include other forms of sexual penetration, not just vaginal intercourse, thus broadening what rape is. Also, the law criminalizes statutory rape, making sexual acts with minors a serious offense regardless of consent. This legislation focuses on victim-centered justice, which provides the survivors with a legal process that causes the least possible trauma. For example, they can testify in closed hearings and are given support systems that can help them in their journey towards justice. Through expanding the scope of what constitutes rape and increasing stronger penalties against offenders, RA 8353 lets it be known that sexual violence is not condoned, and there is a willingness to work with survivors.

One more crucial piece of legislation regarding gender-based violence is the Safe Spaces Act of 2019 (Republic Act No. 11313) that deals with harassment on public spaces like streets, workplaces, and public transportation. Before this law, harassments in the form of catcalling, groping, and lewd comments were often dismissed as everyday affairs. However, under this Safe Spaces Act, these behaviors become a criminal offense, providing a legal framework for the harassment women and girls experience within public places and ensuring consequences from violators, even as their fines or jail sentences await. Another way this law caters to the needs of the women and their surroundings is by demanding public awareness campaigns and establishing anti-harassment policies within workplaces and educational institutions. Knowing that violence against women extends beyond private domains and indeed into public spaces, the Safe Spaces Act empowers women to reclaim public and ultimately feel safer in their everyday lives.

In conclusion, the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women is an important reminder that gender-based violence is a pervasive issue that requires continued attention and action. Laws such as the VAWC Act, RA 8353, and RA 11313 play a great role in giving legal protections for women and children, yet still much has to be done to ensure that laws will be implemented and to bring support to survivors. As we reflect on the importance of National Women's Month and the campaign, let us recommit ourselves to supporting survivors, raising awareness, and advocating for a future where women can live free from violence and fear.