The House Committee on Women and Gender Equality has approved a consolidated bill aimed at enhancing protections under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act, specifically addressing online and digital abuse.

The measure merges eight previous proposals and broadens the scope of the VAWC law to cover harassment, intimidation, stalking, deception, and even hacking carried out through social media and other electronic platforms.

The motion to approve the bill was filed by Gabriela Women's Party-list Representative Sarah Elago, who noted that a similar proposal had been discussed and approved during the 19th Congress.

Cavite 2nd District Representative Lani Mercado-Revilla, one of the bill’s authors, said the legislation would clearly define penalties for abusers who exploit technology. She also emphasized the potential inclusion of a digital restraining order to provide immediate protection to victims.

“Sa pamamagitan po nito, mayroong malinaw na mga parusa sa mga abusadong gumagamit ng teknolohiya, pati na rin ang posibleng digital restraining order upang agad na maprotektahan ang mga biktima,” said Revilla.

“Masaya ko pong ibinabalita sa inyo na ang panukalang ito ay approved na sa committee level, at patuloy nating isusulong para sa mabilis na pagpasa at implementasyon,” she added, confirming the committee-level approval of R.A. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act.

The approved measure is now set to move forward for further deliberation in the House, marking a significant step in addressing digital abuse and strengthening safeguards for women and children in the Philippines.