Safeguarding Dignity: The Anti-Rape and Anti-Sexual Harassment Laws of the Philippines

 


   RA 8353 or The Anti-Rape Law of 1997 is landmark legislation in the Philippines, redefining rape as a crime against persons, not chastity alone. It emphasized the harm inflicted upon the victims, and its definition expanded rape to include sexual assault other than traditional intercourse: penetration of the mouth or anal orifice by means of objects. The law highlights the absence of consent as the primary element of the crime, recognizing scenarios where victims are unconscious, incapacitated, or unable to resist due to threats, force, or intoxication. Significantly, RA 8353 also criminalizes marital rape, provided there is no consent, challenging traditional views on spousal relationships. This law has imprisonment penalties to a life term for an aggravated case, such as a case relating to relatives, guardians, even law enforcers, and so on. Its provisions also reflect the government's commitment to maintaining and keeping the dignity of one's bodily autonomy on international standards for gender equality and human rights.


   


   RA 7877 or Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995, encompasses protection against sexual harassment of working places, learning institutions, and training and learning environments based on the said power dynamics and abuses thereof. This law defines sexual harassment: "Sexual harassment is defined as a form of conduct of a sexual nature that has either an actual or constructive tendency to create a hostile working, educational, or training environment.". The law holds employers, educators, and institutions responsible to maintain a safe environment, where preventive measures, policies, and complaint mechanisms are executed. It underlines accountability and the responsibility of not just the offender but also the negligent organization, which may face fines or imprisonment for committing such crimes.

It is for this reason that RA 7877 equips the people to raise a voice against harassment and builds a culture of respect and equality by laying emphasis on professional and educational spheres free from intimidation and discrimination.

The body encompasses a great contribution from Philippines to Sexual Violence/Harassment Prevention and Protection of Individual Rights and Dignity and the Inculcation of Respect within Society.


References:

 FAST FACTS: How does the Safe Spaces Act protect you?

Rape Royalty-Free Images, Stock Photos & Pictures | Shutterstock

Comments

  1. Christianne Praise de PeraltaDecember 12, 2024 at 8:07 PM

    nice content and title, but I do wish the "shutterstock.com" in the first pic was removed.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Avril Marchae Del PinadoDecember 13, 2024 at 2:41 AM

    Using pictures are helpful in emphasizing. good work!

    ReplyDelete

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