Section 14 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that The

State recognizes the role of women in nation building, and shall

ensure the fundamental equality before the law of women and

men.

While it is already accepted knowledge that women nowadays

are more empowered in terms of suffrage, career positions, and

opportunities, it should also be pointed out that a lot of women

do not have power over themselves. Crimes against women

such as abuse and violence are still prevalent and continues to

rise.

1 out of 5 women aged 15 to 49 has

experienced physical violence since age 15.

1 in 10 women age 15 to 49 have

experienced sexual violence.

Women who experience abuse not only get hurt physically, but

emotionally as well.

1 in 3 women who experienced physical and

sexual violence reported having physical injuries

such as cuts, bruises, or aches.

3 in 5 women who experience physical and

sexual violence reported having experienced

psychological consequences like depression,

anxieties, and anger.

As women are integral and essential parts in nation building, the

State shall therefore take care of the needs of the women and

protect them from all kinds of danger that may damage their

integrity and sanity. As such, violence against women shall be

prevented at all costs.

A woman is like a tea bag; you never know

how strong it is until it's in hot water.

Eleanor Roosevelt American politician, diplomat, and activist.

Longest-serving First Lady of the United States

I do not think, sir, you have any right to

command me, merely because you are older

than I, or because you have seen more of the

world than I have; your claim to superiority

depends on the use you have made of your time and experience.

Charlotte Bront, Jane Eyre English novelist and poet

I do not wish them [women] to have power

over men; but over themselves.

Mary Wollstonecraft, A Vindication of the

Rights of Woman English writer, philosopher, and advocate of women's rights

A state that does not educate and train women

is like a man who only trains his right arm.

Jostein Gaarder, Sophie's World Norwegian intellectual and author of several

novels, short stories and children's books

Women have a much better time than men in

this world; there are far more things forbidden

to them.

Oscar Wilde Irish writer and poet

I declare to you that woman must not depend upon the protection of man, but must be taught to protect herself, and there I take my stand.

Susan B. Anthony American social reformer and feminist who played a

pivotal role in the women's suffrage movement

The Philippines has enacted several laws protecting women

from violence:

Anti-Sexual Harassment

Anti-Rape and Rape Victim Assistance and Protection

Anti-Trafficking of Persons

Anti-Violence against Women and Children with

Womens and Childrens Desks and Services

RA 9262: The Anti-Violence Against Women Act of 2004

Many Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and partylists are

also involved in protecting women against violence:

GABRIELA

Stop the Abuse and Violence against Our Women (SAVE

Our Women)

Bathaluman Crisis Center Foundation

Womens Crisis Center (WCC)

Though efforts and laws have already been enacted, the cases

of abuse and violence against women are still on the rise.

The following are suggested for better service and eventual

mitigation of the problem:

1. Awareness campaigns on violence against women

shall be continued and further strengthened.

Widespread awareness must be

observed. It should be

participated by the government,

NGOs, public and private

sectors, and by the citizens as

well.

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/44566.Eleanor_Roosevelthttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1036615.Charlotte_Bront_https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/2977639https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1853305.Mary_Wollstonecrafthttps://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/1938850https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/1938850https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/4432325http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3565.Oscar_Wildehttp://www.goodreads.com/author/show/59711.Susan_B_Anthony

Photo Source: Katie Giattini

2. A hospital or a special section of a hospital shall be allocated

specifically to cater to the needs of

women who are victims of abuse and

violence.

The hospital or hospital section must

consist of an emergency room, recovery

rooms, and psychological wards for their

emotional healing. Doctors, nurses, psychologists and

psychiatrists who are competent enough to handle these

cases shall be employed. The victims hospital admission may

be kept a secret upon the patients request to ensure security

and preserving her dignity.

3. The aforementioned hospital or hospital section shall

mandatorily report the cases to the police or proper

authority even without the patients consent.

This is one way of the better

monitoring the situation and so that

appropriate actions against the

crimes perpetrator shall be executed.

Many victims choose not to report the

abuse to the police or other competent authority for many

reasons. For victims of sexual abuse, they fear of being

labeled as dirty woman once people found out that they

were raped. As for victims of physical abuse, either their

partners threatening them with danger or fear for their

childrens future are some of the causes.

4. The subject of abuse and violence against women shall be

included during marriage counseling.

This is to make the couple aware of their

rights and their limitations. Discussing the

RA 9262 during marriage counseling might

be helpful in mitigating physical and sexual

abuse, especially marital rape.

Political Science II B1:

Mara Alexandria B. Abalos

Rumar M. Guillena

YOU HIT,

WE HURT.

BREAK THE

SILENCE!