In a significant move to mark Women's Month this March, Deputy Majority Leader and Cebu City 2nd District Representative Eduardo "Edu" Rama Jr. has demonstrated strong support for the protection and empowerment of women in the Philippines. He has co-authored, as a principal sponsor, two crucial proposed bills focused on safeguarding women against online harassment and political violence.
Expanding Protections in the Digital Age
As a principal co-author of House Bill 8420, known as the Expanded Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (E-VAWC) Act, Rama joined fellow lawmakers in updating Republic Act No. 9262, the original Anti-VAWC Act of 2004. This revision aims to address the growing threats faced by women and children in cyberspace today.
The bill formally defines Technology-Facilitated Violence Against Women and Their Children (TFVAWC) as any act committed through electronic or ICT devices that causes physical, sexual, psychological, or economic harm. This includes cases such as non-consensual sharing of intimate images, deepfakes, cyberstalking, online harassment, identity theft using fake social media accounts, and the creation of malicious fake news targeting women and children.
Strict Penalties and Enhanced Support
Under this proposal, proven offenders face severe penalties, including reclusion temporal or imprisonment for 12 to 20 years, fines ranging from P300,000 to P500,000, and mandatory psychological counseling. Additionally, victims who are employed may receive up to 20 days of paid leave, double the current 10 days, while legal proceedings are ongoing.
The bill also empowers courts to order the immediate removal or blocking of harmful online content. It mandates the Department of Justice to manage an Identity and Location Confidentiality Program to protect victims from being tracked by their abusers.
Addressing Political Violence Against Women
Furthermore, Rama collaborated with over 30 lawmakers to introduce the Violence Against Women in Politics (VAWP) Act. This historic proposal marks the first time in Philippine history that political violence against women will be recognized and criminalized as a distinct offense under the law.
The bill provides protection for female candidates, elected officials, party members, and campaign staff against various forms of political abuse. This initiative underscores a commitment to ensuring women's safety and participation in the political arena, reinforcing the broader goals of gender equality and empowerment during Women's Month and beyond.
