By Gabriela Baron
The local government of Muntinlupa passed an ordinance of Monday, June 5, that penalizes individuals engaging in gender-based sexual harassment.
The ordinance covers protection against gender-based harassment in public space, online, and workplace.
“May personal significance ito sa akin dahil isa ako sa advocates sa pagpapasa ng national law – ang Safe Spaces Act o RA 11313 – na pinaghanguan ng ordinansang ito,” Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon said Tuesday.
“Gusto nating matiyak na bawat mamamayan, ligtas sa harassment,” Biazon added.
Stalking, catcalling, as well as making homophobic, misogynistic, and sexist remarks or slurs are prohibited under City Ordinance 2023-077 or “Respeto sa Kapwa Muntinlupeño.”
Offenders will be penalized according to the Safe Spaces Act, they will be fined P10,000 to P20,000 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.
“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,” Muntinlupa Gender and Development Focal Point System Chairperson Trina Biazon said.
Muntinlupa is among the cities in Metro Manila that penalizes gender-based harassment, among Quezon City, Pasig, and Mandaluyong.
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