Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 6) – The Muntinlupa government on Monday passed an ordinance that penalizes individuals engaging in gender-based sexual harassment such as unwanted and uninvited sexual actions or remarks.
“Gusto nating matiyak na bawat mamamayan, ligtas sa harassment [We want to ensure each citizen is safe from harassment],” Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon said in a statement Monday
\”Let us all continue to work together in making sure that Muntinlupa is a safe space for everyone,\” he also said.
Engaging in stalking, catcalling and making homophobic, misogynistic and sexist remarks or slurs are prohibited under City Ordinance No. 2023-077 or \”Respeto sa Kapwa Muntinlupeño\” (Respect for Fellow Muntinlupeño Ordinance).
Violators will be penalized according to RA 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act. They they will be fined ₱10,000 to ₱20,000 or imprisonment for up to two years.
Meanwhile, offenders of online sexual harassment will face a fine of ₱100,000 to ₱200,000 and imprisonment of six months to four years.
The Muntinlupa government will also implement a community service program where gender sensitivity seminars will be conducted.
The Muntinlupa Traffic Bureau, Public Order and Safety Office, City Security Office and barangay tanods were assigned as anti-sexual harassment enforcers to apprehend violators of the ordinance.
\”We encourage all our citizens to support the local government of Muntinlupa to stop all forms of violence and to promote gender equality for all,\” said Trina Biazon, chairperson of Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System.
