Pimentel seeks review of Philippine anti-sexual harassment laws

MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III yesterday called for a review of the country’s sexual harassment laws as the “time is ripe” to strengthen the statutes.

Pimentel said the laws must be strengthened, to include increasing penalties, “both as a deterrent and as proof of the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting and upholding gender rights.”

“Republic Act 9262, the Violence Against Women and Children Law was passed in 2004, more than a decade ago. Republic Act 7877, the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act is even much older. It was passed in 1995. We must update and toughen these laws to be able to adjust to the demands of the times,” he said.

Pimentel said the Philippines has been a trendsetter and pioneer in women’s rights, producing two women presidents and granting Filipino women the right of suffrage in 1937, even before many of the modern republics in Asia were born.

“It’s incumbent upon us today to protect not only women’s political rights but their civil rights as well, those that protect the dignity of their persons,” he said.

Pimentel noted there has been increased focus on sexual harassment and women’s rights lately with reports of sexual abuse and intimidation in show business and sports in the United States, dragging previously illustrious names such as Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein and gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar.

Closer to home, meanwhile, Dr. Carmen Valdes, president of Assumption College, an all-female education institution, revealed in a recently released book this month that she was repeatedly sexually abused during her childhood, according to the senator.

He said the country’s law should be a strong shield that provides protection to victims of harassment, and stiff penalties to offenders and would-be offenders. 

Pimentel also said he would formally request the appropriate Senate committees to look into increasing the penalties for acts of sexual harassment and sexual abuse.

He cited for example the 1995 anti-sexual harassment law where those convicted only face imprisonment of not more than six months or a fine of not more than P20,000.

“We should update these penalties to reflect modern realities. As a lawyer and legislator, I consider sexual harassment as one of the sickest and most deplorable offenses that can be committed because it goes into the very dignity of the victim,” Pimentel said.