Definition of Terms

Protection Orders

These are official papers or commands given by the Barangay or the Court to protect a woman or her
child from an abuser. The goal is to keep the abuser away from the victim, to stop more violence or
threats. The law allows this to happen when someone is in danger or already hurt. The order may say
that the abuser must leave the house or not contact the victim in any way (like calls or messages).

Public Crimes

Usually, only the victim can file a case. But in public crimes, even people who just know about the abuse
(like a neighbor or friend) can file a complaint. This is because violence against women and children
(VAWC) affects everyone—it weakens peace and safety in society. So, the government and the
community have the duty to stop it.

Introduction

RA 9262 or Anti-VAWC Law was made in 2004 to stop abuse against women and children. Abuse can
happen inside homes, especially from people the victims know, like husbands, boyfriends, or fathers.
The law was created because many women’s groups worked hard to demand protection and respect for
women’s rights. This law helps ensure that no woman or child should suffer violence, discrimination
(unfair treatment), or abuse in relationships. It gave women legal powerbto fight back and be safe.

Important Features of the Law

1. Four Kinds of Violence

The law explains four main types of abuse that are not allowed:

-Physical– Hurting the body (hitting, slapping, kicking, choking).

-Psychological – Hurting the feelings or mind (insults, threats, controlling actions, making someone feel
worthless).

- Sexual– Forcing sex or touching, even in marriage, without consent.

- Economic – Controlling money, not giving support, or stopping the woman from working.
This means abuse is not only about hitting. Even controlling someone’s money or constantly insulting
them is violence.

2. VAWC is a Public Crime

This means any person who knows about the abuse can help the victim by reporting it. The victim
doesn’t have to be alone. Family, friends, neighbors, or anyone who cares can file a complaint. Society
helps protect women and children because this kind of abuse damages not only one person but also the
peace and safety of the community.

3. Protection Orders

Victims of abuse can ask the court or Barangay for help. They can get a protection order, which tells the
abuser to stay away. The victim or someone who knows about the abuse can apply for this order. This
helps stop the violence and allows the victim to live safely without fear.

4. Stronger Help from the Government

The law says that government offices must act fast and help victims right away. This means police, social
workers, and local leaders must be trained to assist women and children who report abuse. They must
not ignore these cases.

Protection Orders

A protection order is like a shield for the victim. It helps her feel safe, live normally, and take control of
her life again. It stops the abuser from doing more harm and gives the victim peace and time to recover.

What the Protection Order Can Do:

- Stop threats and violence– The abuser cannot hurt or scare the victim again.

- No contact– The abuser cannot call, text, visit, or send messages to the victim.

- Leave the house– The abuser must leave the victim’s house, temporarily or forever.

-Stay away– The abuser must keep a distance from the victim and her family.
- Custody of children– The victim can be given full care of her child or children.

-Financial support – The abuser must give money for the needs of the woman and children, if the law
requires it.

-Take weapons away – The abuser’s guns or dangerous tools must be taken away.

- Pay for damage– The abuser must pay for anything broken, medical bills, or lost income caused by the
abuse.

-Shelter and help – The victim can ask for temporary shelter, food, and other help from DSWD or similar
offices.

Victim’s Rights Under RA 9262

Women and children who suffer abuse have legal rights that protect and support them.

-(A) Respect and dignity – Victims must be treated kindly, with care and respect.

-(B) Legal help – Victims can get a lawyer for free from the government to help them in court.

- (C) Services from government – Victims can get help from DSWD and local officials like housing, food,
and emotional support.

- (D) Legal support from the Family Code – Victims can use other laws to protect their rights, like laws on
marriage, children, and property.

-(E) Know about protection orders – Victims must be told about their right to ask for a protection order.

Section 39 – Inter-Agency Council on VAWC

-Stop violence

-Help victims

- Train people to respond properly

- Make sure laws are followed

This teamwork ensures that victims get the help they need fast and fairly.

Barangay Duties

Barangay officials (local leaders) must do the following:

(A) Teach the law – Help people learn about RA 9262 and what abuse is.

(B) Stop family violence– Create programs to prevent violence at home.

(C) Support women’s groups – Help organize and support programs for women.

(D) Help victims earn money – Create jobs or small projects to help victims.

(E) Involve women in planning– Let women help make decisions in the Barangay.

(F) 24/7 help desk – Set up a place where victims can ask for help anytime.

(G) Gender sensitivity training** – Teach officials to treat everyone with respect.

(H) Report cases– Keep good records and report all abuse cases.

(I) Create more rules – Make more local rules that help follow the law better.