CAMIGUIN — Camiguin residents who witness violence against women and children or learn of a planned child marriage should report it immediately, protect the victim's safety, and seek legal help, provincial lawyers said during a public legal awareness program.

Speaking on the Padayong Pagserbisyo Alang sa Katawhan (PPASK) radio program on Aug. 6, lawyers from the Provincial Legal Department reminded residents that laws are in place to protect women and children—but they work best when communities act early.

Lawyer Rhoewyn Grace Ladera explained that Republic Act 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act, protects women and their children from physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse.

She urged residents not to ignore suspected abuse.

"Responsibilidad nato isip isa ka community, atong i-report kung naay knowledge sa pang-abuso nga atong mabantayan," Ladera said, stressing that reporting suspected violence is a community responsibility.

Ladera also clarified that the law's protection depends on the circumstances and the relationship involved, and that cases are assessed based on the facts.

What to do if you suspect abuse

Lawyer Tiffany Caruz advised victims and those helping them to put safety first before taking any other step.

She recommended:

  • Move the victim to a safe place if possible.

  • Keep available evidence, such as screenshots of messages or audio recordings.

  • Report the incident to the proper authorities.

  • Seek legal advice to understand the available remedies and protection.

"Protektahi ang imong kaugalingon, then lastly, mangayo og legal advice," Caruz said.

She also reminded residents to avoid exposing child victims on social media. Photos or videos involving minors in abuse cases should not reveal their identities.

Child marriage is against the law

The lawyers also discussed Republic Act 11596, or the Prohibition of Child Marriage Law, which bans marriage involving minors.

They emphasized that cultural, traditional, or religious practices are not exceptions under the law.

Parents, guardians, solemnizing officers, and others who arrange, allow, or facilitate a child marriage may face criminal penalties.

The lawyers warned that child marriage can disrupt a child's education, affect physical and social development, and limit a young person's ability to make informed decisions about the future.

How the public can help

Residents were encouraged to:

  • Report suspected abuse or child marriage instead of remaining silent.

  • Help victims reach authorities or legal assistance.

  • Preserve evidence when it can be done safely.

  • Protect the privacy and identity of children involved in abuse cases.

  • Share accurate information about laws protecting women and minors.

The legal awareness discussion was part of the PPASK radio program's public education efforts to help Camiguin residents understand their rights and responsibilities in protecting women and children from abuse and unlawful child marriage. (With a report from By Recthie T. Paculba)