Written by Clarisse Andrea C. Ong
SILANG, CAVITE—Select freshmen from the San Beda University College of Law (SBU-COL) partnered with the community members of Brgy. Anahaw II, Cavite for “Hiraya Manawari: Patas Na Lipunan, Lakas ng Kababaihan” last April 12, 2024 for their Gender Sensitivity Law class under the leadership of Atty. Lyan David Juanico.
The event featured student-speakers Aureen Mae A. Quiapon (1C), Maryan Pauline Aleckxandra S. Ledda (1H), Dr. Corazon Cristina G. Martelino (1C), and Princess Vida L. Vallester (1H). Quiapon, the introductory speaker, provided a foundational discussion on gender and development concepts, including gender equality, the distinction between sex and gender, and the impact of gender stereotypes. She also addressed the challenges women encounter in leadership, such as gender bias, representation gaps, and pressures related to work-life balance. Ledda and Dr. Martelino discussed the role of women in the home, and referencing pertinent provisions in the Constitution, Family Code, and the Solo Parents’ Welfare Act of 2000. Dr. Martelino also gave an in-depth discussion on RA 9262 or the Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Act.
Vallester’s presentation explored the significant contributions of women in society, particularly in the workplace. She emphasized key provisions of the Labor Code of the Philippines, specifically Article 135, which addressed discrimination against women, Republic Act No. 6725 (amending Article 135), and Republic Act No. 7877, the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act. Vallester further discussed the scope of Republic Act No. 11313, or the Bawal Bastos (Safe Spaces) Law, including potential offenders, types of offenses, where these offenses can occur, and available legal remedies.
As a conclusion, Quiapon emphasized the importance of women’s suffrage as a milestone in the pursuit of equality, a timely discussion given the upcoming elections. Her final remarks highlighted the legal and political influence of women as voters and emphasized the qualities to seek in future leaders.
Brgy. Kagawad Ronaldo Candolita Jr., who also chairs Brgy. Anahaw II’s Committee on Peace and Order, emphasized the necessity of discussing gender laws and available remedies. He shared personal observations of domestic abuse within their community, highlighting the need to know the available legal recourse for such instances. Councilor Carlos Balana Jr. also noted a lack of awareness within their community regarding laws like VAWC, leading many to resolve marital disputes privately. But through events such as Hiraya Manawari, the knowledge gap among concerned parties is also gradually being lessened.
With Atty. Juanico at the helm of the project, he emphasized the valuable skill gained by SBU-COL students in explaining legal concepts in the vernacular as well as the pressing need to address the legal queries of those without access to private counsel as part and parcel of being a future Bedan lawyer.
THE BARRISTER 