The suspension of Manila Councilor Ryan Ponce over acts of sexual harassment is not enough as laws clearly provide for sanctions against perpetrators, the Commission on Human Rights said yesterday.
The CHR said the 60-day suspension imposed on Ponce by the Manila City Council is a ‘welcome step toward accountability. However, it must be emphasized that suspension alone is not a substitute for full accountability.’
The city council earlier ordered Ponce’s suspension upon the recommendation of the committee on ethics, which investigated the sexual harassment complaint filed by fellow Councilor Eunice Castro.
But according to CHR, domestic laws such as the Magna Carta of Women, Anti-Sexual Harassment Act and the Safe Spaces Act ‘provide for clear sanctions and mechanisms to ensure the perpetrators of gender-based misconduct are held accountable.’
‘These laws likewise require institutions to adopt preventive measures, ensure access to justice and extend protection and support to victims or complainants,’ the commission added.
The CHR also cited the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, which serves as a guiding framework for the proper behavior expected of all government personnel.
The human rights body expressed concern over the incident, which occurred within a local government unit and involves an elected official entrusted with serving the public.
The CHR welcomed the reminder issued by the Department of the Interior and Local Government to all local officials that sexual misconduct constitutes a serious breach of law, ethics and public trust.