Muntinlupa signs 'Respeto sa Kapwa Muntinlupeño' ordinance 

Muntinlupa City - In a ceremonial signing held today, June 5, Mayor Ruffy Biazon emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of every citizen from harassment. The signing marked the implementation of City Ordinance No. 2023-077, also known as the "Respeto sa Kapwa Muntinlupeño" Ordinance.

The ordinance is in line with Republic Act 11313, also known as the "Safe Spaces Act of 2019" or the "Bawal Bastos Law," which promotes the safety and well-being of every individual from gender-based sexual harassment.

"We encourage all our citizens to support the local government of Muntinlupa to stop all forms of violence and to promote gender equality for all," said Mrs. Trina Biazon, Chairperson of the Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System.

Councilor Arlene Hilapo, Chairperson of the Committee on GAD, added, "By supporting the Safe Spaces Act, we are taking a significant step towards building a more inclusive society for everyone."

The program was attended by members of the LCAT-VAWC, including Vice Mayor Temy Simundac, Councilor Rachel Arciaga, Councilor Ivee Arciaga-Tadefa, Councilor Allan Camilon, Councilor Atty. Raul Corro, Councilor Luvi Constantino, Councilor Alexson Diaz, Councilor Dado Moldez, City Administrator Engr. Allan Cachuela, City Department Heads, and employees of the local government.

Mr. Reggie Salonga, Acting Head of the GAD Office, expressed gratitude to the other offices and organizations that supported the initiative, including the Social Services Department (SSD), SAGIP, Women and Children Protection Unit-OSMUN, PNP Women and Children Protection Division, City Legal Office, Mayor's Office, Colegio De Muntinlupa (CDM), City Health Office (CHO), Public Employment and Service Office (PESO), MKPi, MTMB, LGBTQ Muntinlupa, SK Poblacion, Barangay VAWC Desks, and Blue Cap Culture/JCI Alabang.

"We believe that there is no place for rudeness in Muntinlupa, and everyone has respect and reverence for their fellow Muntinlupeños," Mr. Salonga stated.

The signing of the "Respeto sa Kapwa Muntinlupeño" Ordinance reflects the commitment of the Muntinlupa City government to create a safe and respectful environment for all its residents. Through this ordinance, the city aims to prevent and address incidents of harassment and promote a culture of respect and equality within the community.