On 26 November 2008, the Integrated Regional Information Networks (IRIN) published an article discussing violence against women in the Philippines. The article notes that although the country passed the Violence against Women and Children Act (VAWC) in 2004, it has failed to be properly implemented or enforced. According to the article, spousal abuse is on the rise and women are often reluctant to report abuse because they fear social stigma or further violence. The VAWC provides for a type of restraining order called a Barangay Protection Order (BPO). However, the article notes that the BPO is difficult to obtain and rarely enforced. It is troublesome that in the “[f]our years since the implementation of the act [VAWC], there have been no convictions.” Local and international non-governmental organizations continue to press for the necessary political will to carry out such a law.
To read the full article, click here.
Compiled from: “Philippines: Law Fails to Stem Domestic Violence," Integrated Regional Information Networks (26 November 2008).