Ever wonder what “safe spaces” mean in the context of everyday life?
It goes beyond just feeling comfortable—it’s about protecting your dignity in public, online, at work, and in school. That’s exactly what Republic Act No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law), is designed to do, even before assistance is needed. Enacted in 2019, this law defines, penalizes, and prevents gender-based sexual harassment across both physical and digital spaces.
Here’s what every Filipino should know.
Why Was the Safe Spaces Act Created?
The Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313) was passed to address the growing number of unreported and normalized cases of gender-based harassment in the Philippines. For years, acts like catcalling, sexual jokes, and unwanted touching were brushed off as “normal” or “harmless,” often leaving victims feeling helpless and without recourse.
This law was created to:
- Recognize harassment as a form of violence, not a compliment
- Protect all genders, including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and men, from abuse in public and private settings
- Fill the legal gaps that older laws like the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act (RA 7877) did not cover—especially for harassment by strangers or peers
- Promote public accountability, pushing schools, workplaces, and communities to take proactive steps in preventing abuse
Ultimately, RA 11313 makes it clear: respect is not optional, and everyone has the right to move through life free from harassment—on the street, online, or at work.
What Behaviors Are Prohibited Under RA 11313?
The Safe Spaces Act addresses gender-based sexual harassment (GBSH) in four major areas:
- Public Spaces
This includes streets, parks, terminals, restaurants, bars, malls, and more. Acts such as:
- Catcalling
- Wolf-whistling
- Stalking or groping
- Sexist remarks or slurs (including those targeting LGBTQIA+ individuals)
- Unwelcome sexual advances
are now legally punishable.
- Online Platforms
The law covers cyber harassment, including:
- Sending unwanted sexual messages or images
- Cyberstalking and impersonation
- Posting malicious content or threats
- Sharing private photos without consent
- Workplaces
Whether it’s a boss, co-worker, client, or subordinate, unwanted advances, sexual jokes, or favors that create a hostile or intimidating work environment are punishable—even if done digitally.
- Schools and Training Institutions
From teachers to fellow students or even visitors, any form of verbal, physical, or online harassment that harms a learner’s dignity or academic environment is covered by RA 11313.
What Are the Penalties?
For Public Harassment
| Offense Type | 1st Offense | 2nd Offense | 3rd Offense |
| Verbal (e.g., catcalling) | 12 hrs community service + ₱1,000 | 6–10 days jail or ₱3,000 | 11–30 days jail + ₱10,000 |
| Persistent remarks, jokes | 12 hrs service + ₱10,000 | 11–30 days jail or ₱15,000 | 1–9 months jail or ₱20,000 |
| Physical/stalking/groping | 11–30 days jail + ₱30,000 | 1–6 months jail + ₱50,000 | 4–6 months jail + ₱100,000 |
Penalties increase if the offender is in a position of power, uses a weapon, or issues threats.
For Online Harassment
- Imprisonment: 6 months 1 day to 2 years 4 months
- Fines: ₱100,000 to ₱500,000
- For Companies: Revocation of license or franchise
- For Foreigners: Deportation after sentence and fines
Administrative Penalties for Institutions
Schools, offices, or LGUs that fail to follow the law (e.g., lack of policies, signage, or reporting systems) may face:
- Fines
- Suspension of permits
- Other regulatory sanctions
Where and How to Report Harassment
Here’s where to go depending on where the harassment happened:
| Harassment Type | Where to Report |
| Public Spaces | Barangay VAW Desk, LGU Social Welfare Office, PNP-WCPD, or ASH Hotline |
| Public Transport | LTO (license concerns), LTFRB (franchise issues) |
| Online | PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group, NBI Cybercrime Division, DOJ Office of Cybercrime |
| Workplace | HR Department, DOLE (private), Civil Service Commission (public), POEA (OFWs) |
| Schools | School’s Committee on Decorum and Investigation, CHED or DepEd Regional Offices |
Pro Tip:
Before filing a complaint, collect and secure evidence:
- Screenshots
- URLs
- Audio/video files
- Names and timestamps
Public Awareness Tips for Safer Spaces
Creating truly safe spaces involves community participation and institutional action. Here’s what schools, offices, LGUs, and transport groups should implement:
- Install visible signages showing ASH hotlines and penalties for harassment
- Conduct regular Gender Sensitivity Trainings for staff and enforcers
- Distribute information materials (flyers, posters, social media) in local languages
- Establish zero-tolerance policies and designate reporting officers in public places
- Partner with local organizations for outreach, education, and survivor support
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is whistling or staring considered a violation of RA 11313?
Yes. If the behavior is unwelcome and causes discomfort or fear, it can be penalized under verbal or non-verbal gender-based harassment.
Q2: Does the law apply to both men and women?
Yes. While many victims are women, RA 11313 protects all genders, including LGBTQIA+ individuals and men.
Q3: Can I file a case even if I don’t know the offender’s name?
Yes. You can still file a report using evidence such as photos, videos, or witness accounts. Authorities will assist in identifying the offender.
Q4: What if my workplace or school has no harassment policy?
Under the law, all workplaces and schools are required to establish a Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI). If none exists, report to DOLE, CSC, CHED, or DepEd depending on the institution type.
Q5: I was harassed online. Should I report to the police or my internet provider?
Start with the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group, NBI Cybercrime Division, or DOJ Office of Cybercrime. Internet platforms may help remove content, but legal action goes through the authorities.
Q6: Are there free legal services for victims of harassment?
Yes. You may seek help from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO), barangay legal aid officers, or women’s rights organizations partnered with local government units.
Final Thoughts
RA 11313 is a reminder that public safety includes emotional and psychological safety. Whether in a jeepney, at a café, in a Zoom meeting, or walking on campus—every Filipino deserves to feel safe, seen, and respected.
If you’ve been harassed or know someone who has, speak up. The law is clear: “Bastos” behavior has no place in our streets, screens, or schools.