EDITORIAL - Victims of domestic violence

On National Women’s Month, advocates of women’s welfare are glad that a general in the Armed Forces of the Philippines is seeing his career derailed by accusations of domestic violence hurled by his estranged wife. Three cheers for the women who are willing to present themselves in public to denounce violence and abuse at the hands of their husbands.

The Commission on Appointments effectively bypassed yesterday the nomination of Col. Ranulfo Sevilla for promotion to brigadier general. Sevilla, deputy chief of the AFP’s Special Operations Command, has been accused by his wife Tessa of beating her up and neglecting their children, one of whom is with special needs. The wife said Sevilla provided monthly child support of only P2,000.

At his confirmation hearing, Sevilla reluctantly agreed to provide P50,000 in monthly support, although he initially wanted to give only P30,000. If bypassed two more times by the Commission on Appointments, he will lose his chance of promotion to star rank.

Tessa Sevilla was accompanied to the hearing by the wife of a retired military general, who is also a victim of domestic violence. Gemini Baladad reportedly suffered three miscarriages due to the violence.

The country has a strong law against domestic violence, Republic Act 9262, the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act. Signed on International Women’s Day on March 8, 2004, RA 9262 provides broad protection for women and their children against physical, psychological and other forms of abuse at the hands of their husbands, partners or boyfriends.

RA 9262 enhances RA 7610. Passed in June 1992, RA 7610 provides special protection for children against abuse, exploitation and discrimination. As in most laws in this country, unfortunately, much is lost in the implementation of the two laws. Many women are unaware of their rights under the laws. Barangay officials are tasked by law to assist victims of domestic violence. But there have been complaints that barangay officials refuse to do so, with the excuse that such matters are private family affairs that couples must settle by themselves.

The stigma attached to being a victim of domestic violence also persists among women across all income classes, according to women’s groups. So Tessa Sevilla and Gemini Baladad deserve commendation for their courage to come out in the open. Their stories should also inspire greater support for the legalization of divorce.

“I am here to spread awareness that this is really happening and something must be done. The unsung heroes here are the wives of soldiers,” Baladad told the Senate yesterday. “Something must be corrected so that we can have a safer place.”