Tejada, Lorvi Jana D. BSE – English 4-1 Annual Regional Conference on Gender and Development (GAD) Reaction Paper How many times do you need to hide or shed your tears, and how many times do you need to remain still? These are the usual questions I've heard from the authorities whenever they are handling crimes involving women as a victim of abuse. Any form or act of violence against women is punishable by law. The Republic Act 11313 otherwise known as the Safe Space Act IRR with several contents is now signed to be the best basis of a victim’s concern, however, one of the specific contents of this law that captured my attention is about the Gender-Based Street & Public Spaces Sexual Harassment and as well as the Gender-Based Online Harassment. In my opinion, this newly implemented law will serve as a strong defense for frail and disquiet victims of malicious perpetrators. Violence against women can be done or acted anywhere at any time in different circumstances therefore, I must be knowledgeable to help save victims and assists them until justice is served. Many years ago, I witnessed sexual abuse inside public transport. I was sitting in front of a sleeping woman and the culprit was taking advantage of her tired body. I was completely blinded by fear and weakness; my mouth then was covered with shame if a made a scene. I wish we had this particular law when that incident happened so, I could have the courage to end the lawless crime in my face, however, my hands were tied with terror. This RA 11313 is seamlessly crafted to fight for the right of abused women at all costs. Knowing my position holding the right of a citizen’s arrest without a warrant gives me the audacity to be part of this campaign in seeking fair justice to the victims of abuse. I am thankful to our honorable Congresswoman GMA for passing this law in congress addressing such a particular crime about Gender-Based Harassment which has never been given an emphasis until this law has passed and signed in September of 2021. RA 11313 will give the victims an appropriate desk to hear their complaints and a formal venue to submit statements in witnessing a crime to make sure justice will be served. I recommend for those who had, and now having an abusive experience to speak up and stand for women’s rights. It is about time to be free from fear, shame, and doubt because there are people who are ready to defend a complainant until justice is served. Any form of abusive act against women whether it was seen during or after the crime has to be addressed and I can make a difference if I know and understand my rights as a woman.
