Empower Women: The Legal and Advocacy Struggle Against Violence

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Violence against women is one of the worst social problems facing the world and the Philippines. Results from the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey indicate that almost 1 in 5 women experience emotional, physical, or sexual violence by their partner. This is where laws, including Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9262, popularly referred to as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act of 2004, play their role of protection of these women against these violations and promoting the gender equality principle. R.A.

9262 has been viewed as a landmark one as it criminalizes other forms of abuse against the women and children, including physical, psychological, emotional, economic, and sexual abuse. It recognizes specific vulnerabilities of women in relationships, particularly intimate ones, and seeks to provide them with legal redress through protection orders, legal aid, and support services. This is important in the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women as it underlines further the efforts of the government towards a non-violent and discriminated society. Other than R.A. 9262, there are more laws that complement the fight against VAW. A prime example would be R.A. 8353, otherwise known as The Anti-Rape Law of 1997, which has defined and criminalized rape as a grave offense. In addition to the definition, this law expanded the term rape, to include coercion or inability to give consent, in addressing the varied forms of sexual violence women may face. Another is R.A. 7877 or The Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995. The law has pointed out harassment as a targeted infringement in workplaces, schools, and training environments. Furthermore, institutions are encouraged and obligated to establish avenues in reporting and dealing with such instances. This thus promotes safer spaces for women through accountability mechanisms on perpetrators.

The annual observance of the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women not only reminds us of challenges but also celebrates legal strides made for women's protection. Such laws as R.A. 9262, R.A. 8353, and R.A. 7877 empower women to have the tools that would help them seek justice and rebuild their lives.

As we raise awareness, it is worth noting that making violence against women cease entirely will be a product of collective action. In support of this, let's pave the way to enable a future where each and every woman lives free of any fear or violence.


References:

1. Philippine Statistics Authority. (2022). 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS): Key findings. Retrieved from [https://psa.gov.ph](https://psa.gov.ph)  

2. Republic of the Philippines. (1997). R.A. 8353: Anti-Rape Law of 1997. Retrieved from [https://lawphil.net](https://lawphil.net)  

3. Republic of the Philippines. (1995). R.A. 7877: Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995. Retrieved from [https://lawphil.net](https://lawphil.net)  

4. Republic of the Philippines. (2004). R.A. 9262: Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act of 2004. Retrieved from [https://lawphil.net](https://lawphil.net)  

5. Philippine Commission on Women. (n.d.). 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women. Retrieved from [https://pcw.gov.ph](https://pcw.gov.ph)  



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