Safe Ways to Respond and Intervene
If you think someone is harassing you, it’s important to understand reporting mechanisms under the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313). If you are a bystander, it’s encouraged to become an “upstander” by intervening or reporting inappropriate behavior, prioritizing safety for both you and the victim-survivor.
Who You Can Get Help From
Both victims and witnesses have the right to report gender-based sexual harassment (GBSH). On campus, educational institutions must comply with the Safe Spaces Act by maintaining a zero-tolerance policy and a complaint mechanism. In Benilde, you can approach the Center of Restorative Discipline (CRD) offices and the Gender and Development (GAD) Office.
In public areas, enforcement is primarily the responsibility of Local Government Units (LGUs) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). Promptly reporting incidents to the police, especially to the PNP’s Women and Children Protection Center, is essential. Additionally, LGUs can offer support and counseling services.
Want to File A Report on Campus?
On campus, educational institutions must comply with the Safe Spaces Act by maintaining a zero-tolerance policy and a complaint mechanism. In Benilde, there is a Gender and Development office that assists with cases and a Committee of Decorum (CODI) team that is formed for cases, filing an incident report, and for possibly requesting safety accommodations.
How can I respond when I witness it happening?
If you find yourself in a situation where you witness a case of sexual harassment against another individual in public, there are ways in which you may safely intervene. You can consider the The 4 D’s of Bystander Intervention, it is a technique for intervening in situations where someone is being harassed or threatened.
Direct
First, approach the victim and check. Call out the negative behavior of the perpetrator. Don’t try to aggravate the situation, remain calm and tell them why their action was offensive. Do this with another person if you can.
Distract
Interrupt the situation by distracting the perpetrator and drawing the attention of the victim to safely get them out of the situation. This can be done by asking for directions, spilling a drink, or starting a conversation with the victim.
Delegate
Get someone else to help you intervene, such as a friend or someone in authority who is nearby. It can be a supervisor, employee, or police officer nearby.
Delay
Wait until the situation has ended and then check on the victim. Let them know that you saw what happened and that you are there to help.
Remember, when it comes to intervening safely, your personal safety is a priority. If you see someone in trouble, make sure to clearly assess the situation if you can intervene safely in any way. Learning to recognise when someone is in danger and knowing how to intervene safely is an essential skill.