A resolution has been filed at the House of Representatives resolution seeking a congressional inquiry over the reported sexual, verbal and emotional abuse in the state-owned Philippine High School for the Arts located in Los Banos, Laguna.
“The recent revelations about the PHSA prompt serious reflections on how the Safe Spaces Act and other relevant laws on the protection of women and children from gender-based harassment and abuse are being enforced, especially in government-run schools,” the resolution filed by Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Arlene Brosas stated.
Brosas noted that while the public high school has released a statement, none was mentioned about the complaints filed by the students before the school’s Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI).
“We laud the courage of the victims in coming forward and speaking out against the culture of abuse in the secluded public school,” Brosas said.
“We hope can put an end to such string of offenses and strengthen policies in educational institutions to protect women and children from sexual harassment and abuse,” she added.
Based on a VICE World News report, the resolution noted the various forms of abuse were committed by senior students, teachers and school staff against students as young as twelve.
In the resolution, Brosas asked the incoming 19th Congress’ Committee on the Welfare of Children and Committee on Women and Gender Equality to look into the matter at a proper time.
