October 13, 2025
MANILA – Laguna Representative and House Committee on Women and Gender Equality (CWGE) Chair Rene Ann Matibag on Saturday filed a resolution to look into the implementation of the Safe Spaces Act in local governments following an accusation that a Manila councilor sexually harassed his fellow councilor.
“The investigation is not just about the case. It’s about sending a clear message that sexual harassment, whether on the streets, online, or in the halls of power, will never be tolerated,” Matibag said.
“Every office from the barangay hall to the city council to Congress itself, must be a safe, respectful, and gender-sensitive space. Under the Safe Spaces Act, all government offices are mandated to adopt and enforce measures to prevent gender-based sexual harassment,” the lawmaker added.
Matibag also warned that officials who fail to implement this law may be administratively sanctioned.
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Moreover, Matibag condemned sexual harassment, especially in government, calling for the enforcement of the Safe Spaces Act and the Code of Conduct for Public Officials and Employees among local governments and legislative bodies.
She also commended Castro for speaking out, saying, “coming forward in such circumstances is never easy, and it takes great strength to stand for one’s dignity and truth.”
Manila Councilor Eunice Castro, in a privilege speech on Thursday, alleged that her fellow councilor, Ryan Ponce, had been harassing her through text messages and even asking Castro to “reveal more,” referring to her clothing during a council session.
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In the same session, Ponce apologized to Castro saying in Filipino: “I stand here not to defend myself. I stand here to wholeheartedly, humbly apologize for what I did, for what I said.”