The Victoria, Laguna Municipal Police Station raised awareness about the trends of economic and financial abuse that some women face.
During the Bagong Calabarzon Barangay Forum organized by the Philippine Information Agency Calabarzon, Corporal Ligaya Palomar discussed the key provisions of Republic Act 9262, also known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004.
Palomar emphasized the different forms of abuse covered by RA 9262, particularly economic violence. This occurs when a woman is prevented from working without a valid reason or when financial support is not provided to a woman and her children. In some cases, the perpetrator shares a child with the victim.
Participants were then briefed that VAWC (Violence Against Women and Children) is a public crime punishable by law—meaning not only the victim but also social workers, police officers, barangay officials, lawyers, family members, friends, and even concerned neighbors can file a complaint.
“Ang VAWC ay isang public crime, so ibig sabihin, hindi po kailangan na ‘yung biktima lang ang p’wedeng magreklamo dito sa kasong ito. P’wede ang Social Worker o MSWD natin sa munisipyo, p’wede pong kami, p’wede po ang barangay kagawad, p’wede po ang abogado, kamag-anak, kaibigan, kapit-bahay, o sino mang may kaalaman sa krimen kase nga ito ay mga maselang kaso, public crime po s’ya,” Palomar reiterates.
Punishable acts under RA 9262 include physical harm, threats, intimidation, coercion, and psychological abuse, including emotional blackmail.
The forum then calls participants into action by encouraging them to take part in the fight against gender-based violence. Palomar stressed that no one has the right to harm women, reinforcing that genuine love and relationships should be rooted in respect, care, and equality.
“Ang mga babae, kahit sino ka man, kahit pulubi ka man, kahit pangit ka man, kahit maganda ka man, o kahit anong uri mo mang tao rito sa mundo ay walang sapat na dahilan upang ikaw ay bugbugin or saktan lamang,” Palomar stressed.
Aside from the discussion about VAWC, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority provided technical and skills training for women. (CH,CA/PIA-4A)
