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Download RESEARCH RESEARCHRESEARCHRESEARCHRESEARCHRESEARCHRESEARCHRESEARCHRESEARCHRESEARCHRESEARCHR and more Thesis Theology in PDF only on Docsity! SAN BEDA UNIVERSITY College of Arts and Sciences BS Legal Management Manila A.Y. 2021-2022 THE HOUSE ARREST OF US: EFFECT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ON WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN’S WELL-BEING FINALS EXAM In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the subject THED05: Sacraments and Family Life Submitted by: ANCHETA, June Nissa Angela MARTIN, Jan Paolo OBONG, Jylle Naly PASCUA, Ma. Dianah Joyce PASCUA, Ma. Dianah Therese 3ALM Submitted to: Prof. Jennifer Fonseca July 12, 2022 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT As a form of gratitude, the researchers would like to give recognition to everyone who invested time and effort for the success of their study. Thus, it is rightful that the researchers give acknowledgement to the following: With great recognition, the researchers express their deepest thanks to God, the Father Almighty for his constant guidance throughout the processes in which the researchers have undergone. Thus, it is only correct that the researchers recognize Prof. Jennifer Fonseca, for her constant encouragement throughout the entire research process. As such, the researchers consider her guidance on the study's premise as significant factors of development in the field of research. Lastly, the researchers would like to provide gratitude towards their families, friends, and classmates for their vote of support in the development of the study. This research would not be possible without their consistent prayers from the beginning until the end. 2 93% of its population adhere to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Justice Perlas-Bernabe however emphasized that “the admonition for husbands to love their wives as their own bodies just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her failed to prevent, or even to curb, the pervasiveness of violence against Filipino women.” Violence against women appears as one of the country’s prevalent social problems; it is deemed to be closely related with the unequal power relation between women and men otherwise known as “gender based violence”. Statistics reveal that one in four Filipino women age 15-49 has experienced physical, emotional or sexual violence by their husband or partner. According to the Philippine Commission on Women, concrete information showing the extent of VAW in the country is lacking as many cases of violence against women often go unreported due to women victims’ “culture of silence’; this is also associated with the victims’ lack of faith in the country’s justice system caused by frustrations over the lack of results in filing complaints. Although the fields of violence against children (VAC) and violence against women (VAW) historically developed separately, the international community has paid growing attention to intersections between these forms of violence. The intermingling of love and violence in the form of violence has been a long standing issue not only in the country, but also globally. Such prevailing issue of violence 3 against women and children in the family have a long term effect and consequence. This creates an unhealthy, toxic cycle of abuse among the family and just what Colleen Hoover said in one of her famous novels entitled “It Ends With Us”, “We break the pattern before the pattern breaks us, In order to formulate a plan of action and suggest policies that can address the problem of household violence in an integrated manner, the study was designed to achieve the following objectives: 1. Identify, define and analyze domestic violence in all its possible types; 2. Identify the cause that contribute to this kind of violence, and the circumstances that make people more likely to encounter and engage in it; 3. Describe and examine the cycle of events that results in acts of violence; 4. Evaluate the effects on the victim, paying particular attention to women and children; 5. Identify the theological relevance of the aforementioned violence; and 6. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of current legislation, regulations, mechanisms and programs that are directly and indirectly related to family violence. 4 I. EXPERIENCE (DATA) According to the World Health Organization, one in three women have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once in their life. Most violence against women is perpetrated by current or former husbands or intimate partners. More than 640 million women aged 15 and older have been subjected to intimate partner violence. This may be a result of several factors such as the trust and affection formed between couples which may have led to over trusting the other and made him control everything, even her freedom. From March 2020 to August 2021, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Women and Children Protection Center received 18,945 VAW cases. Like in any other country, violence against women is a grave violation of women’s human rights, no matter when, where, or how it takes place. There are many forms of violence against women, which have many potential negative health consequences equally for women and their children. The effects of violence are very often long-lived. The most common form of violence against women are verbal abuse, sexual harassment, physical abuse, denial of basic needs and means of communication. According to studies, most women who are victims of domestic abuse or intimate partner violence often go through the “Walker Cycle Theory of Violence,” a tension- reduction theory which explained that there are three distinct phases associated with a recurring battering cycle: (1) tension-building, (2) acute battering incident or violent episode phase, and (3) loving contrition or honeymoon or remorseful phase. According 7 In one of their quarrels, the petitioner grabbed the private respondent on both arms and shook her with such force that caused bruises and hematoma. There was also a time where the petitioner hit Rosalie forcefully on the lips that caused some bleeding. The husband petitioner also turned his ire on their daughter, Jo-Ann, who had seen the text messages he sent to his paramour and whom he blamed for squealing on him. He beat Jo-Ann on the chest and slapped her many times. When the private respondent decided to leave the petitioner, Jo-Ann begged her mother to stay for fear that if the latter leaves, petitioner would beat her up. Even their sons, at a young age, were aware of their mother’s sufferings. Their 6-year-old son even once stated that when he grows up, he would beat up his father because of his cruelty to the private respondent. In denying the husband’s petition for review on certiorari, the Supreme Court reiterated Justice Puno’s observation that ‘the history of the women's movement against domestic violence shows that one of its most difficult struggles was the fight against the violence of law itself. If we keep that in mind, law will not again be a hindrance to the struggle of women for equality but will be its fulfillment.’ Meanwhile in Tulunan, North Cotabato Philippines, rainy days remind a certain “Sarah” (not her real name) of bitter memories. She is a single mother in Mindanao who vividly recollects the pains that she went through because of her partner. 8 In an article published by the United Nations, ‘Sarah’ narrated how his husband forced her and their children to leave their home. The idea of a failed relationship and uncertainty as to how to raise her little sons by herself alone, distressed Sarah giving her sleepless nights. However, she did not file a complaint against her partner and instead settled for monthly financial assistance (UNFPA Philippines, 2020). The reluctance of the victims to pursue complaints against their partners and the former’s tolerance of abuse are the problems which boil down the culture. In connection to victims’ reluctance to pursue the complaint, problems like costly, lengthy litigation and corruption in the judiciary and prosecution exist. These problems discourage the victims in filing formal complaints. (Dimaano, et al, 2018) When will enough really be enough? How many women shall endure and embrace a life of abuse? How many children must be bruised and broken at the hands of their parent/s? How many bones are needed to be broken? How much blood needs to be spilled? How many tragedies will open our eyes to see that violence will never have a valid justification? Becoming a prisoner in a house of abuse with no safe escape to hide into. Locked in a room full of obscurities, their voices remain unheard nor seen. This has been the life of the victims of domestic violence – a life of misery and insignificance. 9 II. ANALYSIS Article 149 of the Family Code of the Philippines defined Family as the foundation of the nation and regarded as a basic social institution to which the public policy cherishes and protects. The 1987 Philippine Constitution views the Family as a sacrosanct institution wherein it expressly mandates that the state shall strengthen and protect the family as a basic autonomous social institution. Philippine law even declares that any custom, practice or any agreement which is destructive of the family shall not be recognized or given effect. Family life is highly treasured by Filipinos in a way that it must be perceived as a bond to be valued, maintained, and safeguarded (AFS-USA, n.d.). They give all their best and take all possible steps to ensure that their loved ones will have food in their mouths. Filipinos also consider the family as the main support system for better, or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness, and in health. As a collectivist society, the demands of the family come before anything else. As Filipinos give high regard to families, there is an underlying assumption that the family is a safe haven where the wife and children can count on receiving safety and security, as well as a caring and growing environment. It is the place where we are free to express ourselves and do anything as long as it conforms with the house rules. However, not known to many, there were purple kisses in the bodies of the wives and children from certain households. Behind the doors where we call it home, there are unheard voices who call for help — the abused women and children. 12 injustice against women, we must start from the home; for if a woman cannot be safe in her own house, then she cannot be expected to feel safe anywhere.” In the midst of innumerable social issues present in the country, the incessant existence of gender inequality remains relevant in the 21st century. As such, regardless of their geographical or cultural background, women still have to endure a lifelong struggle against discrimination, abuse, and violence (Oxfam International, 2021). The pervasiveness of violence against women and their children (VAWC) is so extensive that the international community has been prompted to declare it as a public health and human right issue of worldwide scope (Guedes, et al., 2016). Several global and regional conventions and agreements, such as the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women of 1993 and the Beijing Platform for Action of 1995, have been established as a result of momentous calls by countless organizations pushing for the protection of women’s health and rights. The 1987 Constitution, which is the highest law of the land, accentuates the essence of protecting our women and children in our society. Encapsulated by the 22 sections of Article III known as our Bill of Rights, it could be gleaned that both life and dignity of a human person have always been the state’s preeminent priority 13 — In this light, our government has long recognized the importance of protecting women and their children against violence and threats to their safety and security. Considering the aforementioned, several government agencies and programs have been established to perform functions that serve such a purpose; the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), which was created in 1975; the Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) of the Philippine National Police (PNP); and the Gender and Development (GAD) Program in all government departments. The government has also tied up with the United Nations (UN) agencies and civil society organizations in pursuing its goals of ending VAWC and helping people who suffered from gender-based violence — it is crucial to highlight, however, that the biggest step that the government has taken to date, was the passage of Republic Act 9262, or the Anti-Violence against Women and their Children Act of 2004. Republic Act No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence against Women and their Children Act of 2004 is the primary law that seeks to address the prevalence of violence against women and their children (VAWC) by their intimate partners such as their husband or ex-husband, live-in partner or former live-in partner, boyfriend/girlfriend or ex-boyfriend/ex-girlfriend, dating partner or former dating partner (Philippine Commission on Women). The law substantially enumerated the several acts which may constitute violence, as well as its classifications including, but not limited to, physical and psychological abuse. It further provides for the 14 different penalties which may be imposed in violation thereto, in hopes to curb the effects of VAWC and fortify the rights of our women and children. Despite the combined efforts from the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), however, VAWC remains rampant. In a study conducted by Balahadia et. al, (2021), it was stated that among women aged 15 to 49, one out of four reported having suffered physical or sexual violence in the 12 months preceding the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) in 2017. Data from the Philippine National Police (PNP) also revealed that physical abuse accounted for 38.54 percent of the 108,675 cases of domestic violence, making it the most common. Furthermore, in a a survey commissioned by the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) in early 2021 and conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS), it was also reported that “harmful acts” in the form of physical, sexual, and emotional violence are causing great concern in their everyday life under the “new normal” for 25% of the adults surveyed. Twice as important is our state’s role in protecting our children. Deemed included in our laws against the threat of VAWC, all children in the Philippines, and Filipino children elsewhere, are protected from all forms of violence, abuse, exploitation and discrimination. As the unfathomable COVID-19 pandemic struck the world, however, children’s vulnerability to violence and exploitation was exacerbated. 17 Due to high expectations of the society, women tend to sacrifice safety and security in favor of family reputation. Consequently, there is also a culture of victim- blaming from the fact that defying gender norms incentivizes objectification, humiliation, guilt, and even justification of violence. Through demeaning women, tolerating rape jokes and sexual remarks, publicly harassing female journalists and/or reporters, linking femininity with frailty, and inciting the military to shoot women ‘communist rebels’ in the vagina,” the Duterte regime epitomizes sexism and shapes the view of society to women. People who are recognized as “ Feminists of Convenience,” support women’s rights, but tend to keep quiet about Duterte’s actions out of consideration for their own families and careers as well as to prevent political backlash. Through their silence, the culture of impunity continues to exist (University of the Philippines Center for Women’s and Gender Studies, 2020 as cited in Arevalo et. al, 2022). The effects of domestic violence are likely the same with the preservation of Filipino culture – long-lasting. According to the Office on Women’s Health (2021), there are various effects and consequences of violence, having immediate and short-term to inter-generational effects, however, the consequences and costs of violence have impacts at the individual level, as well as within the family, community and wider society, which translate into costs at the national level. The short-term effects include slight injuries or severe conditions. Injuries to internal organs, as well as cuts, bruises, broken bones, are also included. Also, sexual or 18 physical violence is connected to long-term effects of violence. These include stress, heart problems, chronic pain, nightmares and problems sleeping. Many women also experience mental health problems after violence. Some women started consuming alcohol or drugs, or engaged in dangerous activities such as having unprotected sex to cope up with the effects of violence. This goes beyond the direct harm they receive from the abusers. Gluck (n.d.) states that victims of violence struggle to function in their daily lives. They frequently lose their jobs as a result of being absent from work owing to doctor appointments, which makes it harder for them to escape their violent relationships; they feel undeserving of affection; and feel humiliated that their partners are abusing them. Oftentimes, the abuse that the wife gets from her spouse has a ripple effect on their children. Violence against children occurs in an abusive household wherein it is said that the reason for such violence is often complex and that there is no simple explanation behind it. Some of the causes of violence against children are the past childhood experiences wherein the parents have previously experienced abuse during childhood in their own families, causing them to develop an insecure attachment style. Another reason is the lack of parenting skills wherein the parents do not have sufficient knowledge how to care for their child and unknowingly believe that it is normal and acceptable to use excessive physical force as a way of enforcing discipline. Causes of violence against children also include lack of 19 support, financial pressures, lack of understanding towards child’s development, vices and mental health problems (Queensland, n.d.). Culture is a player in this game wherein the hostility of Filipino parental discipline such as corporal punishment is a wrong notion in parenting. It is noted that children often viewed such punishment as normal which is equivalent to just being disciplined and being loved (Crisostomo, 2018). A child who has internalized phrases like "My mom and dad hit me because they love me" is one illustration of the culture. This is a culture of silence that is supported by yet another misconstrued principle — honor. Studies show that the shame of the family outweighs the abuse and violence being committed against a member is most likely a woman or child, defenseless and innocent (Philippine Human Development Network, 1997). OASH also states in the same article that when the abuses are becoming more prevalent than the learnings a child should inculcate, it affects the perception of the child as he grows older. It imposes that based on the upbringing of the parents to their children, a cycle of abuse may start and may continue to future generations. Children who experience abuse or witness it are at considerable risk for long-term physical and mental health issues. Exposure of a child to violence, particularly at home, is a risk factor for having bully behavior in schools. Children who undergo abuse at the hands of an 22 violence could also link to their growth as an adult committing heinous crimes. While also, based on the findings of NIJ-funded research conducted by Dr. Herrenkoh (2017) that among their participants, those who experienced maltreatment as a child became antisocial and mostly had an involvement in criminal acts. However, such violence does not only affect a child’s social attributes as this can also affect their physical and mental wellbeing on a long term perspective specifically according to Virtual Knowledge Centre to End Violence against Women and Girls (2010) that the following are some of the consequences: (a) immediate injuries such as fractures and hemorrhaging, and long-term conditions (central nervous system disorders, chronic pain, etc); (b) mental illnesses (anxiety, post- traumatic stress disorder, depression, and attempted suicide); (c) sexual and reproductive helath problems; (d) substance abuse; (e) poor social funcntioning skills and social isolation and marginalziation; and (e) lower productivity. This notion of violence is based on the idea that men have against women and children as they are often seen as the most vulnerable and innocent in society. The women, on the other hand, also experience psychological and physical effect to which in accordance with the study lead by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2021, focusing on the Violence against women, they stated “Women tend to experience health consequences that can often lead to suicide, injuries, unintended pregnancies, induced abortions, miscarriage, depression, post- 23 traumatic stress, HIV increase rate, physical pains, sexual violence, and they also became addicted to vices as a result of sexual abuse experienced in their childhood (WHO, 2021).” Particularly, to better understand, the violence experienced by women creates a negative effect upon their whole being which greatly affects their physical, emotional, mental, and also, their reproductive health. It should also be noted that this kind of consequence also affects the child's well being. According to the OASH (2021) that “a boy who sees his mother being abused is 10 times more likely to abuse his female partner as an adult.” In other words, it creates a domino effect and as mentioned above, children who sees and experiences violence as a child tend to be abusive as well as an adult. Furthermore, in the same article produced by OASH (2021), it was seen that women who experienced violence tend to shut themself out from the society making it hard for them to receive help. Primarily, violence against women became a public health concern as it could affect their whole self-esteem affecting a whole lot perspective including those that surround them. WHO (2021) said on their study that the root for such consequences are due to intimate partner violence and sexual violence. In relation to the above study, domestic violence which falls under intimate partner violence together with physical aggression, is a term experienced by 24 women perpetrated upon them by their abusers to gain power and control over them (United Nations, n.d). Meaning, the power of being on the upper hand gives the abusers the control of undermining the women. However, abusers themselves may also be a product of violence themselves as a child. In an article by Hammond (2017), she cited reasons as to why abusers tend to be abusive, and it states that: “Abusers may have been abused or witnessed violence as a child, they may also have a disorder, anger issues, control issues, they do not understand boundaries, they are afraid, they lack empathy, they are exhausted, or they are defensive (Hammond, 2017).” In substance, the above-mentioned reasons are what possibly gives the abuser the power to perpetuate violence, however, this does not mean that when they are victims of violence themselves, they have the authority to act out indifferently and immaturely. Additionally in Bangladesh, on a study produced by Islam et.al (2018), abusers tend to manifest violence towards their partners, specifically on women, through swear words, beating, by starving them, and by separating them from their children. Simply put, women in this aspect are weak in the perspective of men as they have the means to control them nonchalantly without identifying the effects that possibly could affect them. In the same study by Islam et, al, sexual violence or abuse, was found out to be kept in silence due to the purview that the victims and their abusers are in a close relationship to wherein it was stated that “A little girl could be sexually abused 27 Even in the Bible, stories of domestic violence was narrated. In the Old Testament, rape is viewed as an “outrage” (nebalah) - a term which occured 13 times in the Old Testament and is reserved for extreme acts of violation against God and human beings, including the rapes of Dinah, Tamar, and the woman of Bethlehem. However, it is in the same book that we find comfort from our strength. God is on the side of the oppressed and abused (Psalm 56). The scriptures clearly express God’s desire for a dramatic transformation of society for those who are burdened, marginalized, or unjustly treated (Luke 4:18-21; Proverbs 14:31; Matthew 9:13; Mark 3:4-5). Jesus refuses to play by the rules of violence and power (Isaiah 42:3, Matthew 26:52, Mark 10:41-45). The way of Jesus calls us to relationships of non-violence and peace. Hence, it is essential to remain open and equal. CONCLUSION The notion that man-skinned monsters created by God will go to any length to prove their dominance is already alarming. Inflicting burns, pouring acid, and cutting off body parts, to name a few. Intentionally locking someone up in the dark questions the presence of humanity left in such people. All of this may seem unbelievable, but unfortunately, it has been a common crime in society. Ironically, the woman in question and her family frequently decide to stay silent for the sake of family reputation and future of the marriage. However, keeping quiet in these 28 times should not be taken into consideration. It is time to upend the status quo and consider the voices who long for help. As they always say, “kapag namulat ka na sa katotohanan, kasalanan na ang pumikit.” 29 III. THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION We, humans, are social beings. Scientifically, we share the same neurons that allow us to match each other’s emotions unconsciously; ergo, we leak emotions to each other. As social beings, it is normal that we interrelate with people — It gives us a sense of purpose, as well as gratification. Relationships are the cornerstone of happiness and living a full life. As stated in 1 Peter 4:8, above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. It provides us with friends and or family whom we can share our lives with and help us out during tough times; but like all other things in life, relationships are dynamic. As humans are imperfect, so are our bonds and interconnections with other people. This reality is embodied in Ephesians 4:2. In Ephesians 4:2, Paul reveals in a community what it looks like to love everyone. They love Jesus, but oftentimes grapple with being affectionate with each other. At times, they are divided. There is outside opposition and opportunities to be offended. Nevertheless, Paul reveals characteristics that will help them through each of these — “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” And so 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 teaches us that love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self- seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 32 Life and dignity of the human person have always been the focal point of catholic teachings. Ergo, the church instills that (1) all human beings are made in the image and likeness of God; (2) all human beings have God-given dignity; and (3) Christians are called to respect and protect human life and dignity. The first social teaching declares that the respect for human life, as it is considered as one of the most fundamental needs in the world ---- something that violence against women and children evidently negates. Catholic Social Teachings have emphasized that human life is sacred and that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society. As Christians, it becomes one of our duties to stand up for all our women and children who are victims of violence wherever they may be in the world. Matthew 5:16 tells us: “In the same way, let your light shine before people, so they can see the good things you do and praise your Father who is in heaven." It has been stated that helping others is as simple as living an honest and faithful life. By living thoughtfully and honoring God with our words and actions, we can inspire someone to help themselves by doing the same. 33 IV. PRACTICAL MEDIATION Domestic Violence is an insidiously intricate problem that remains unresolved in society. Violence against women and children whether it be inside or outside the confines of the home, is not and will never be justified. Such violence has serious repercussions on one’s emotional, psychological, physical or to the well-being of an individual as a whole. Furthermore, it also creates a culture of silence and an agonizing cycle of abuse that may continue from generation to generation. The Catholic teachings and scriptures have constantly reminded every individual about the understanding of the equal dignity of men and women and its relationships must be based on mutuality and love. In the book of Genesis, it teaches that men and women are created in God’s image. Genesis laid down a profound principle stating “Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made man.” (Genesis 9:6). Andy Rau (2013) said that this links to the fundamental reality that human beings are made in the image and likeness of God therefore violence against human beings is wrong. The life of an individual who remains to be a prisoner of his/her own abusive home continuously endure walking the loop of tension-incident-reconciliation-calm path. Colleen Hoover, a famous author said that “Cycles exist because they are excruciating to break. It takes an astronomical amount of pain and courage to disrupt a familiar pattern.” With this, the researchers’ realized the need to break the silence and be the voice for those who are voiceless and cannot stand up for themselves. The researchers’ wanted to give glimmers of hope among women and children and would like to suggest some 34 course of actions and recommendations based on the gathered data and findings. The following recommendations are proposed by the researchers: A. To the Government The researchers would like to recommed to create and enact a law strengthening the present laws relating to anti-violence against women and children. In addition to this, to provide sustainable livelihood to the victims for them to be secure about their family’s welfare and still be able to provide their needs. Moreover, this can be done by collaborating and creating partnership agreements with the Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Local Government Unit (LGU), and the Women’s Desk of the barangay or municipality. Researchers would likewise propose for the government to be in touch with the Department of Justice to have a speedy process of the complaints and cases relating to violence against women and children. B. To the Philippine Commission on Women The Commission shall create a long and efficient program that will enable all women to be aware and familiarize themselves with their rights and the corresponding laws that will adhere to their needs as women. 37 V. INDIVIDUAL REFLECTION PAPER ANCHETA, June Nissa Angela M. Prof. Jennifer Fonsesca 3ALM July 12, 2022 Growing up as a woman was never easy. Though for some, simple words uttered such as “Hi Miss” coming from random strangers on the street may appear inconsequential, for me it was conspicuous --- and uncomfortable. Not being able to wear the clothes I have been wanting to wear outside, people doubting my capabilities, and family friends’ backhanded compliments, made me realize how serious the issue of gender inequality is in our country. Nevertheless, these circumstances motivated me to prove how powerful women could be; and though I am still on my way towards my own definition of ‘success’, I can say that all my efforts are slowly paying off --- and I aspire to influence others and empower our Filipinas to boldly fight for their rights. One of my biggest wins for this Academic Year was being able to spearhead Junior Bedan Law Circle’s newest project, Project EBA: Empowered Babae Ako. Like my group’s topic for this paper, it was established in light of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) in our Country. The aforementioned project aims to facilitate women empowerment through free seminars extended to several barangays. Our organization wanted our Filipinas to feel that their barangays CAN entertain their complaints. 38 While I was interviewing our barangay officials, I heard numerous stories of violence against women by their partners. Listening through these stories alone made me shiver, and I felt the same while our group was gathering for necessary data needed in our output. I could not imagine how difficult it is for countless women to get out of an abusive relationship knowing that their lives could be at stake. Though there are legal means available here in our country, many cases often go unreported due to financial constraints as well as our flawed justice system. But then I also saw a lot of people who are WILLING to learn and educate others for them to be able to contribute in mitigating, if not totally eliminating, the cases of VAWC here in the Philippines. And through these individuals, I see hope. While we were preparing for the official launching of Project EBA in our Department, I saw this specific phrase by G.D Anderson, a feminist and activist who founded The Cova Project in 2018 -- “Feminism isn’t about making women stronger. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” The only way for us to empower women and their children is to make them feel that their concerns could be heard, seen, and understood. As a student of the law, I believe that it is one of my duties to contribute to the change I always wanted to feel. Calling out the government is one thing, but doing even the smallest actions such as educating friends and rectifying misconceptions, can go a long way. 39 Indeed, there is no place in the world where abusers deserve to lounge – except inside the prison cells. MARTIN, Jan Paolo P. Prof. Jennifer Fonsesca 3ALM July 12, 2022 Families have the biggest influence in someone’s life, being with them almost every second, every day. Hence, it is greatly unfortunate and sorrowful for those experiencing domestic violence to suffer every second, every day before choosing to leave that kind of life. I kinda know that feeling but no violence in the scene. Being a son of an overseas Filipino worker, I lack the image of a father who shall stand firm and defend his family. Although I have my older brother to have that resemblance, I urge for the comfort of a father. I know the feeling of suffering, emotionally - being away from one of the foundations of our family. However, it is also through him that I realize how fortunate I am to have a caring dad who has never hurt his children. Hence, I understand the necessity of him working abroad and the current situation of our family. And it is my deepest wish, to be able to graduate on time in order for him to return home for good. Nevertheless, hearing stories from friends experiencing violence hurts me as I cannot imagine how everything must be done with its existence. I believe that God has guided my way to this program - Legal Management - to be an instrument for those people who experience such circumstances. It is through His blessing of knowledge and wisdom that I can extend my hand to those offended. 42 and being reminded that we are all servants of the Lord that spreads positivity and love. Again, to love is to make things work in a healthy way. PASCUA, Ma. Dianah Jocce G. Prof. Jennifer Fonsesca 3ALM July 12, 2022 Living with the Tyrant Growing up, I had only knowledge that violence occurs in external areas – in the streets, abandoned warehouses, stockrooms, or somewhere beyond the countryside. Not until the pandemic happened, it has shaken the lives of the many. When the country is facing an unforeseen crisis, it paved the way to reveal the true colors of officials on governance and leadership. The pandemic has put a test to the leaders of the country and yet, I had later realized that we are living under an administration who is a tyrant. Through condoning rape jokes, giving sexual remarks, and harassing female supporters, the Duterte regime incites to normalize these acts, not knowingly it may lead to violence against women. As Duterte personifies sexism, it unfortunately shapes the perception of society regarding women. Worse, this misogyny is tolerated by many Filipinos, including those of women in power. The former leader of the Philippines is not the lone tyrant. Unknown to many, others are living in the safe haven, or what we call as ‘home.’ Men instill fear, force and violence to prove that they are dominant over the other, treating their spouse as a 43 weakling, and sometimes, they are being regarded as a property – pursued and controlled. With this, they perceive that they are more privileged than women, which confers more power and influence, resulting in gender inequality. As this continues to be a hidden issue in the country, it is disheartening that our Filipino culture has romanticized a toxic mindset, from teaching on how we should dress to viewing things in conservatism, that we should be like Maria Clara. That we should dress above the knee. That we should eat in a manner like this and that. But, in these times where our fellow women need support, we should not be silent. We should not be threatened. We should not sacrifice our dignity for the sake of the honor of our own family or the future of one’s marriage. Instead, be courageous and stand up for what is right and just. Being silent also tantamount to turning a blind eye on the injustices made by men to women. It also means taking side on the perpetrators who caused havoc to the life of every ‘Ganda’ in the world. If we were to set aside this problem, it does not only affect the victims in present cases. It also causes a ripple effect to the next generation – children. What is alarming is that many children are becoming victims of domestic violence. It is true that they did not do anything, but as a member of the family, they are always affected by such violence. It is unfortunate that a child still has things to explore at an early stage, but the learning and growth stops when violence intervenes. Their lives suddenly became miserable due to the abuse they get from their fathers. This also 44 changes the way they treat the world, a feeling that they do not have the chance to live better. To have a healthy relationship. And to be a good parent in the future. It is a stab in the heart that I had not noticed earlier that the challenge to live in a patriarchal society has become more difficult as we are confined in our own homes. Nevertheless, I am not losing a slight chance of hope since I have become more aware of the problems of the country. As I study the law, it becomes more apparent the flaws in Philippine governance and this I must say that people are gradually enlightened on what is happening around them. That we are living under the tyrant. But before we overthrow the biggest tyrant sitting in the throne, we must start fixing the problems in our homes to return what home feels like to be – comfortable, peace, safe, and secure. I may be part of the youth who is still on the verge of discovering new things, but I am old enough to see the injustices experienced by the victims. It is time to prove that we really are the “hope of the future.” Lastly, as the son of the dictator becomes the elected president, we must not let history repeat itself. No more violence. No more #NeverAgain. No more living with a tyrant. 47 VI. REFERENCES: AFS-USA. (n.d.). Filipino cultures. Retrieved from https://www.afsusa.org/countries/philippines/#afs-nav-people Almariz, R., Pena, F,. & Nathan, J. (2020). 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