TOUGHER PENALTIES FOR PUBLIC OFFICIALS’ MISOGYNY AND HOMOPHOBIA EYED

Amendments to the Safe Spaces Act are being considered to impose stricter penalties on public officials for misogynistic or homophobic behavior. Proposed sanctions include fines of ₱100,000–₱500,000, six-month suspensions, and disqualification for repeat offenders. Rep. Geraldine Roman emphasized that elected officials must set an example by promoting equality and respect. The Act, enacted in 2019, penalizes gender-based harassment, including catcalling and lewd remarks. Roman earlier criticized VP Sara Duterte’s controversial “don’t be gay” remark directed at police personnel.