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A 2016 survey conducted by the Social Weather Station commissioned by UN Women revealed that three out of five women, between ages 18 to 24 years old, have experienced sexual harassment in their lifetime. The same survey said that 70% of these incidences were committed by a complete stranger and 34% of the women respondents experienced the worst forms of sexual harassment such as flashing or exhibitionism, public masturbation, and groping.

This survey result paints a clear picture of how prevalent sexual harassment is in the Philippines. For many decades, women who are victims of it opt to remain silent due to fear and embarrassment. But times have slowly changed and more women are speaking up and Philippine legislation has greatly improved.

Good news, mga mahal!

BATAS NA: Safe Streets & Public Spaces Act (our 12th law) will protect everyone, especially women & LGBT, from sexual harassment in the streets, schools & workplaces.

This law is a landmark victory against bastos culture. Goodbye, catcallers!

-- risa hontiveros (@risahontiveros) May 29, 2019

In July 2019, President Rodrigo Duterte signed the Safe Spaces Bill, making the Safe Streets & Public Spaces Act an official law. And under Section 4 of this law, different forms of harassment are divided into three types: light, medium and severe.

Section 4 of Safe Streets & Public Spaces Act

Safe Streets & Public Spaces Act violations and penalties

Exhibitionism falls under the Medium Violations category, which on a first offense is punished by a fine of P3,000 and/or community service of eight hours inclusive of a Gender Sensitivity Seminar, to be conducted by the Philippine National Police in coordination with the local government unit and the Philippine Commission on Women. A second offense shall be punished by aresto menor (11 to 30 days) or a fine of P4,000.00, while a third offense shall be punished by aresto mayor (one to six months) or a fine of P5,000.

So, if you ever encounter an exhibitionist, do not hesitate to let the authorities know about it because it is an offense punishable by law. It is your right to complain and file a report.

A unique case of sexual harassment will be featured on GMA-7's new program Ilaban Natin 'Yan. It's about a 51-year-old woman who was allegedly sexually harassed by a younger male relative, who frequently walked in front of her naked while holding a knife.

Learn more about this incident of sexual harassment and what expert advice will be given to the alleged victim by watching Ilaban Natin 'Yan on Saturday, March 7, 4 PM on GMA-7.