LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, Mar. 21 (PIA) – The Sangguniang Bayan of Lingayen passed Ordinance No. 109, s-2022 or the “Bawal Bastos Ordinance” that prohibits gender-based sexual harassment in public places, social media, work or offices, schools and training institutions here.
 
Councilor Rasel Cuaresma, committee chair on women and author of the ordinance, said it applies to the general public but more specifically to women who are prone to experiencing harassment.
 
“(This is for the) general public. Not only to women. Pero since target lagi ang women, parang naka-focus sa kanila (ang ordinance),” Cuaresma said.
 
The “Bawal Bastos Ordinance” includes catcalling, wolf whistling, sexist, homophobic and transphobic remarks or calling someone as gay or lesbian, verbal or physical sexual advances, and other kinds of harassment, persistent telling of sexual jokes, use of sexual names; and even stalking.
 
It also bans public masturbation or flashing of private parts, groping, or making offensive body gestures at someone and other similar lewd sexual actions.
 
Also, any advances, whether verbal or physical, that is unwanted and has threatened one’s sense of personal space and physical safety, which may include cursing, leering, or looking with a sideways or oblique glance, which suggests lascivious interest or sly and malicious intention intrusive gazing, or taunting are prohibited.
 
Cuaresma said violators will be fined.
 
Violators will be meted a fine of P2,500 with counseling and monthly reporting to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office for the first offense.
 
Offenders for the second time will face six to 10 days of imprisonment with P2,500 penalty, while detention from 11 to 30 days will be meted out for the third offense.
 
The Sangguniang Bayan is still awaiting the concurrence of the Provincial Board before its implementation. (JCR/AMB/PIA Pangasinan)