GENERAL SANTOS CITY (PIA)—As part of National Women’s Month, the General Santos City Population Management Office (CPMO) is emphasizing the implementation of the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), also known as the Anti-Bastos Law.
This advocacy aims to raise awareness of the importance of protecting individuals from all forms of harassment in public and private spaces, CPMO Department Head Judith Janiola said during Kapihan sa PIA 12 at SM City General Santos on March 3.
“We should be empowered—we can decide, we can act, and we can seek justice against harassment. We must be aware that we can protect ourselves because of this law,” Janiola said.
Strengthening Awareness
Gender-based harassment is a reality in public transport, workplaces and even homes, Janiola emphasized.
“Many are unaware that even simple acts of harassment, whether in public transport or on social media, have legal consequences,” she said.
She further noted that the Safe Spaces Act is not only for women but also for men and members of the LGBTQ+ community who experience harassment.
“No one should be left out. Through the Gender and Development program, we emphasize inclusivity—not just for women, but also for men who have been recorded as victims of abuse,” she emphasized.
The Safe Spaces Act mandates strict penalties for gender-based harassment—whether in public spaces, workplaces, schools or online platforms—with fines reaching up to P500,000, depending on the gravity of the offense.
Janiola shared a recent case where a tricycle driver was penalized for harassing a female student by taking her to an unintended location.
“When the student jumped out of the vehicle, she was able to get the driver’s details, leading to his immediate arrest. He paid a fine, underwent two weeks of community service, and I gave him orientation, because he was required to attend a public education session to understand the law,” she explained.
Everyone, she added, must amplify this awareness, especially among fathers, brothers, uncles and grandfathers who may be harming or abusing family members.
She urged both women and men to report cases of harassment and seek legal remedies, noting that penalties under the law range from fines as low as P1,000 to imprisonment of up to five years, depending on the severity of the violation.
The CPMO has lined up a series of activities for Women’s Month, focusing on gender equality, health and women’s empowerment:
Barangay Women’s Federation Cooking Contest (March 7), showcasing culinary talents of women from various barangays.
Health and Wellness Fair (March 7 and March 24), providing free medical consultations, mental health sessions and wellness services, including pneumonia vaccines.
Best GAD Information Board Contest (March 10), to encourage barangay LGUs to promote gender and development awareness.
Women’s Forum (March 24), where issues affecting women, including the Safe Spaces Act, will be discussed.
Outreach Program in Barangay San Jose (March 25), with distribution of food kits in collaboration with LGU and local organizations.
Tree Growing Activity in Barangay Mabuhay Riverbank (March 28), an initiative to contribute to environmental preservation.
Janiola also announced that General Santos City’s Gender and Development (GAD) program continues to be recognized nationally, having been awarded the GAD Seal and serving as a learning hub for LGUs across the country.
“We have become the hub for LGUs, municipalities and provinces across the Philippines. Many want to visit our office because we are a GAD Seal awardee,” she said.
As Women’s Month 2025 unfolds, General Santos City stands firm in promoting safe spaces, empowering women and strengthening gender-responsive programs for a more inclusive and just society. (HJPF, PIA SarGen)
