Forty-two lawmakers filed House Bill 8393 to define and penalize violence against women in politics (VAWP), citing gaps in existing laws like the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act, the Safe Spaces Act, and the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
The bill defines VAWP as acts—online or offline—causing physical, sexual, psychological, economic, institutional, or symbolic harm to women due to their political participation.
Penalties include imprisonment, fines, and disqualification from public office for offenders, with harsher punishments for public officials or political candidates.
Aggravating factors such as misuse of public resources and gendered disinformation are also addressed in the proposed law.
The bill, led by Leila de Lima and supported by 41 other representatives, aims to protect women’s rights and uphold inclusive governance by deterring systemic attacks in politics.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 11, 2026
