LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The municipal council here passed the “Bawal Bastos” ordinance imposing penalty to gender-based harassment in public spaces and online.
The Municipal Ordinance Number 109 series of 2022, authored by Councilor Rasel Cuaresma, though is still awaiting the concurrence of the Provincial Board before its implementation.
Once it is fully enacted, people will have to be careful in their behavior as all forms of sexual harassment in public spaces, social media, workplaces, schools and training institutions in this town will be strictly prohibited.
"(This is for the) general public. Not only to women. Pero since target lagi ang women, parang naka-focus sa kanila (ang ordinance),” Cuaresma said.
The ordinance defined catcalling, wolf-whistling, sexist, homophobic, and transphobic remarks, and verbal or physical sexual advances as well as exhibition of sensitive parts of the body and showing sexual desires as forms of harassment and stalking.
Violators will be meted a fine of P2,500 with counseling and monthly reporting to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office for the first offense.
Offenders for the second time will face six to 10 days of imprisonment with P2,500 penalty, while detention from 11 to 30 days will be meted out for the third offense.