PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte already signed into law the amendment that seeks to enforce stronger measures of protection against rape, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse.
Republic Act 11648, which was signed by President Duterte last March 4, 2022, raises the mandatory age to be considered a crime of statutory rape to 16 years old from the former 12-year-old provision.
This means that even if a 16-year-old minor consented to have sexual intercourse, it will still be considered as rape.
Under the law, it will also strengthen the protection of minors against prostitution, child trafficking, and pornographic publications and movies.
The law also mandates that public and private schools should include in their curriculum the correct response and reporting of rape and other sexual offenses.
This means that the Department of Education should include in their basic education curriculum the strengthening of rights and protection of children.