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Browse our 5 legal questions about Domestic Violence in Philippines and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
Domestic Violence or commonly known as "Domestic Abuse", is a serious issue in Dasmarinas, Philippines. It refers to violence or any other form of abuse that occurs in a domestic setting, such as in marriage or cohabitation. The Philippines has enacted the "Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004" or commonly known as "VAWC, " which protects women and children from physical, sexual, and psychological harm or threats. It also includes economic abuse, or acts that make or attempt to make a woman financially dependent.
If you are a victim of Domestic Violence in Dasmarinas, hiring a lawyer may be essential in ensuring your safety and protecting your rights. A lawyer can guide you through the legal proceedings, help gather the necessary evidence, and represent you in court. They're also instrumental in securing protective orders, pursuing charges against the perpetrator, and handling divorce or child custody issues relating to the abuse.
The VAWC Act, under Section 5, considers the following acts as criminal: physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence, and economic abuse. The perpetrator might be subjected to imprisonment or large fines if found guilty. Protective measures can be issued by Barangay officials or courts to protect victims from further harm. Moreover, other laws such as the Family Code of the Philippines and the Revised Penal Code can also be applied depending on the specifics of the abuse.
Domestic violence includes physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse from someone you reside with or have an intimate relationship with. It can also include threats of such abuse.
Victims have the right to seek protection from the state, report the violence, secure a protection order, and seek damages from the perpetrator. Children have additional rights, such as the claim to be protected from abuse and neglect and access to appropriate care and assistance.
Yes, victims of domestic violence can apply for a Barangay Protection Order (BPO) or a Temporary Protection Order (TPO) from the court. These prohibit the abuser from causing further harm to the victim.
If a protection order is violated, the perpetrator can face criminal charges and be subjected to immediate arrest and imprisonment.
You can report domestic violence to your nearest police station, or directly to the Barangay officials. It's important to provide as much evidence as possible.
You can reach out to the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and non-governmental organizations such as the Women's Crisis Centre and GABRIELA. They provide varied forms of aid, from psychological counselling to legal assistance, for domestic violence victims.
If you find yourself in a domestic violence situation, the first step is to seek safety. Call the police or someone you trust immediately. Contact a lawyer or legal organizations to understand your rights and the legal processes involved. Importantly, ensure you're physically safe before embarking on the legal process. It is strongly advisable to document all instances of abuse, as these will be beneficial in your legal proceedings.
