As we celebrate Women’s Month this March 2025, the Municipality of New Lucena reaffirms its commitment to gender equality and protection against sexual harassment through the continued enforcement of Municipal Ordinance 2021-02, also known as the "Bawal Bastos Act". This landmark legislation remains a significant achievement in safeguarding the rights and dignity of women and other vulnerable sectors in the community.

Women’s Month: A Time to Reinforce the Call for Respect and Equality

        Women’s Month is a time to honor the achievements of women and acknowledge the challenges they still face, particularly in terms of safety and equality. It is also a call to action, urging all citizens to actively uphold the principles of respect, dignity, and safety that the ordinance represents.

        This year, New Lucena celebrates Women’s Month by reinforcing the importance of safe spaces for everyone—at home, in the workplace, in schools, and in public areas. The local government will conduct awareness campaigns, legal assistance programs, and seminars on gender sensitivity to ensure that all citizens are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities.

A Landmark Ordinance for Protection and Empowerment

        The Bawal Bastos Act, officially known as Municipal Ordinance 2021-02, was sponsored and authored by Sangguniang Bayan Member Sainthia Joy D. Sorrilla. It was enacted on December 29, 2021, and later signed into law by Mayor Liecel Mondejar-Seville on January 20, 2022. 

Understanding Gender-Based Sexual Harassment

The Bawal Bastos Act defines gender-based sexual harassment as any unwanted, uninvited, and inappropriate act that causes discomfort, fear, or humiliation. It does not only happen to women but to anyone, regardless of gender, age, or background. 

Sexual harassment can take many forms, including:

  • Catcalling and wolf-whistling – Making inappropriate noises, whistles, or remarks towards someone in public.
  • Misogynistic and homophobic slurs – Insulting words or phrases that demean a person based on their gender or sexual orientation.
  • Unwanted sexual advances – Asking for sexual favors, making suggestive comments, or any persistent act of flirting that makes a person uncomfortable.
  • Unwelcome, uninvited, and intrusive gazing – Staring in a way that makes someone feel unsafe or objectified.
  • Insulting, offensive, rude, and derogatory remarks – Words meant to belittle or embarrass someone.
  • Public masturbation and flashing of private parts – Indecent exposure in public places.
  • Persistent stalking – Following or intimidating someone against their will.
  • Telling sexual jokes and making suggestive comments – Sharing inappropriate humor or statements that make others uncomfortable.
  • Unwanted physical contact – Touching, pinching, or brushing against someone's body without their consent.

Moving Forward: A Community of Respect and Accountability

        The Bawal Bastos Ordinance remains a powerful tool in making New Lucena a safer and more respectful community. It highlights the municipality’s unwavering commitment to human rights, gender equality, and inclusivity.

        However, laws alone are not enough. True change starts within each of us. Every citizen plays a crucial role in building a respectful society by speaking out against harassment, educating others, and practicing respectful behavior in daily life.

As we celebrate Women’s Month 2025, let us all commit to being allies for gender equality. Together, we can create a New Lucena where everyone—regardless of gender, age, or status—can walk freely without fear of harassment or discrimination.

Bawal na ang Bastos! Let us build a culture of respect, dignity, and safety for all.