23/01/2026
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS:
VAWC (Violence Against Women and Their Children) – RA 9262
Every woman and child deserves to live free from fear, harm, and abuse. Under Republic Act 9262, the law protects against:
✅ Physical abuse – hitting, slapping, physical harm
✅ Sexual abuse – forced s*x, harassment, exploitation
✅ Psychological abuse – threats, insults, humiliation, stalking, controlling behavior
✅ Economic abuse – withholding support, taking away access to funds, preventing work or livelihood
👉 Even if you are already separated from your partner, past or ongoing abuse can still be the basis of a VAWC case (within the legal period).
👉Who Can File a VAWC Case?
• The wife or live-in partner
• A woman with whom the offender has/had a s*xual relationship
• The child (legitimate, illegitimate, adopted, stepchild)
• Parents, guardians, or social workers (on behalf of the child or victim)
⚖️ Penalties for Offenders:
🚨 Jail time: 1 month to 20 years (depending on gravity of abuse)
🚨 Fine: ₱100,000 to ₱300,000
🚨 Mandatory psychological counseling
💡 Remember:
A VAWC case is both criminal (punishable by imprisonment) and civil (you can also claim custody, support, and damages).
✨ Speak up. Seek help. You are protected.
📞 Approach your Barangay, Police Women’s Desk, DSWD, or Family Court to file a case and ask for a Protection Order.
