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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider VAWC cases should still be pursued even if complaint is withdrawn

VAWC cases should still be pursued even if complaint is withdrawn

Published Mar 2, 2026 09:35 am
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) asserted on Monday, March 2, that violations under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 or Republic Act (RA) 9262 are public crimes that need to be pursued even if the complaint is withdrawn later.
The PCW brushed off the persistent misconception that violence against women and their children (VAWC) cases are merely “private matters.”
“But the violations under RA 9262 are considered public crimes,” the PCWemphasized.
As public crimes, the PCW explained that the prosecution does not depend solely on the victim’s continued participation once a case has already been initiated.
“Kapag sinabi po natin na public crime, hindi po siya, kapag nagkasundo po sila, hindi po puwedeng ‘ayoko na palang magsampa ng kaso (When we tell the public that it (VAWC) is a public crime, that is not the case when both parties agree to a settlement, it cannot be I do not want to pursue the case,’’ the PCW explained in a statement. 
Further, the PCW pointed out that settlements or reconciliation do not automatically halt legal proceedings, underscoring that this legal framework reflects the government’s firm stance against domestic violence and abuse.
“Ibig sabihin po nito, yung estado po natin may pakialam. Dapat meron po tayong ginagawa para mas ma-establish po natin na seryosong krimen ang ganitong mga klaseng paglabag (This means that the our state has concern. We should be implementing measures for us to establish that these kinds of violations are serious crimes),’’ the PCW added.
Reports continue to show that many VAWC survivors hesitate to pursue cases due to fear of retaliation, economic insecurity or victim-blaming with some worrying about losing financial support if their abusive partner is prosecuted, while others fear social stigma or lack confidence in the justice system.
To address these concerns, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) noted that the local government units (LGUS) are strengthening barangay-level response mechanisms, including ensuring that Violence Against Women Desk Officers are fully trained to provide survivor-centered, confidential, and responsive assistance.
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