On Feb. 9, a photo circulated on Twitter regarding an anti-rape tip by the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office.
It said that, as a rape prevention measure, the police office encourages women to refrain from wearing revealing clothing.
I’m sure many women still remember that time a police station in Angono, Rizal posted a problematic guide on how to avoid rape—which is a lot like the one posted by the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office. There was also that time when a Caloocan city ordinance forbade women to wear short shorts.
As glad as we are with the fact that some LGUs are acknowledging and penalizing rape, the trend here is unfortunately turning out to be problematic as the anti-rape “tips” they’re promulgating are placing the burden of rape prevention on the shoulders (and wardrobe) of women and implying that they are to blame if they get sexually assaulted or harassed.
Some have replied to the original tweet to correct the guide, noting that the only way to prevent rape is to teach people not to rape.
This infographic by the Philippine National Police Public Information Office is also troubling.
Although it isn’t as widely circulated as the previously mentioned handouts, it mirrors the same sentiment. These infographics can be harmful since they peddle misogyny and victim-blaming instead of addressing the root of the problem and making public spaces safer for everyone.
Ultimately, lawmakers and enforcers should stop victim-blaming. They should instead start with the concept of consent then invest in training that will address sexual assault as other countries have through acquiring the help of the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
Parents and teachers are also integral parts of the solution. They should teach the concept of consent at an early age, all while adults themselves should educate on understanding consent, sexual agency and the idea that predators alone should be condemned for sexual violence.
Photo courtesy of Pexels
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