THE Pangasinan provincial board passed a resolution calling on all local government units (LGUs) to fully implement the Safe Spaces Act or Anti-Bastos Law contained under Republic Act 11313.

Enacted on April 17, 2019, RA 11313 is a landmark law addressing gender-based sexual harassment in both physical and online public spaces by promoting safety and respect for all individuals, regardless of gender, sexual preference, or orientation.

The law defines gender-based sexual harassment as unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or any verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It also covers acts that ridicule or insult a person’s sexuality or gender identity, creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.

Reports of gender-based sexual harassment continue to surface, indicating a gap in the law’s implementation and the need for a more comprehensive effort from all LGUs in the province.

The resolution, authored by Fifth District Board Member Rosary Gracia Perez-Tababa, emphasizes that full implementation of the Safe Spaces Act requires collaboration and active participation from LGUs to ensure the creation of safe spaces for all.

The resolution, prompted by the Provincial Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (PIACAT-VAWC), also calls for the enactment of a provincial ordinance to institutionalize the role of LGUs in addressing gender-based harassment. (Eva Visperas)

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