IT IS quite unfortunate that the mauling incident involving actress Ana Jalandoni occurred as the nation observes the celebration of the National Women's Month this March. The social media world was shocked when news about the alleged assault, which happened in Tagaytay broke out over the weekend.
And of course, as a woman, I myself got so much affected upon seeing the pictures and messages sent by the actress. In the pictures that circulated online, the victim has severe bruises on her right eye and face, signs that she has been seriously beaten by the suspect, her boyfriend Kit Thompson who is also an actor.
One thing needs to be clear -- for whatever reason it is, no man or individual has the right to inflict pain or injury to a woman or another human being. For the purpose of my column today, I shall be focusing on women's rights against violence and abuse.
First, let us define or qualify what constitutes as violence against women. According to Republic Act 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, violence against women and their children "refers to any act or a series of acts committed by any person against a woman who is his wife, former wife, or against a woman with whom the person has or had a sexual or dating relationship, or with whom he has a common child, or against her child whether legitimate or illegitimate, within or without the family abode, which result in or is likely to result in physical, sexual, psychological harm or suffering, or economic abuse including threats of such acts, battery, assault, coercion, harassment or arbitrary deprivation of liberty."
It is evident that the alleged battering of Ana Jalandoni constitutes physical abuse that caused bodily or physical harm to the victim. And, the trauma that comes with this horrifying experience will also certainly cause mental or emotional suffering and public humiliation that are considered as psychological violence. RA 9262 provides that acts that constitute "attempted, frustrated or consummated parricide or murder or homicide shall be punished in accordance with the provisions of the Revised Penal Code."
So let this sad incident be a lesson and reminder to all women and ladies out there. When in a relationship, make it a point to scrutinize and look out for warning signs that may indicate violent tendencies. These may be seen early on or at a later time when you get to know each other better. As much as possible, know every bit of detail including family histories that may play a detrimental factor in your partner's behavior. If you already married the person and experience subtle or severe abuses from your husband, you may want to voice out and let your spouse know that you feel violated and abused. If he loves you, he will make the best effort to change these negative acts he is committing. However, if the case is on a hopeless and losing end, know that your well-being and safety is more important than saving the relationship. Remember that it is not too late to start again and if it is for your betterment, then it is good for you to walk out the door.
Women, like me, must always put in mind that we do have a voice, and that it should be heard. Let us make change work for ourselves and our fellow women.