AFAB holds GAD Congress on Anti-Rape, Anti-Trafficking Laws

The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), through its Gender and Development (GAD) Committee, successfully conducted a “GAD Congress: An Awareness Orientation on Anti-Rape Law and Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act” as part of the celebration of National Women’s Month 2026. The activity gathered members of the Freeport Area of Bataan community to strengthen awareness on laws protecting women and promoting gender equality in the workplace.

During the congress, key provisions of Republic Act No. 8353 and Republic Act No. 9208 were discussed, including updates under Republic Act No. 11862. Speakers highlighted the importance of recognizing forms of sexual violence and human trafficking, as well as the legal remedies and protection mechanisms available to victims.

Republic Act No. 8353, also known as the Anti-Rape Law of 1997, reclassified rape as a crime against persons and expanded its definition beyond traditional concepts. Meanwhile, Republic Act No. 9208 criminalizes the recruitment, transport, or harboring of individuals for exploitation, with stricter penalties introduced under its expanded version to address evolving trafficking schemes.

AFAB officials emphasized that the orientation aims to deepen the understanding of employees and stakeholders on gender-sensitive laws, ensuring a safer and more inclusive environment within the Freeport. The initiative also aligns with the broader mandate of GAD programs to mainstream gender equality in government institutions and workplaces.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to upholding women’s rights and fostering a gender-fair community, underscoring the vital role of women in building a progressive and sustainable Freeport Area of Bataan.