Public Awareness of Anti-Violence against Women and

Children Law in Tagum City: Basis for Information

Dissemination Plan

Michelle T. Encabo & Dr. Alger P. Dura

American Journal of Public Policy and Administration
ISSN 2520-4696 (Online)
Vol.9, Issue 2, pp 48 – 70, 2024 www.ajpojournals.org

Public Awareness of Anti-Violence against Women and Children

Law in Tagum City: Basis for Information Dissemination Plan

Michelle T. Encabo1* & Dr. Alger P. Dura2

1
Graduate School Student, Master of Public Administration, University of Mindanao
2
Master of Public Administration, University of Mindanao

Article history
Submitted 10.01.2024 Revised Version Received 16.02.2024 Accepted 21.03.2024

Abstract
Purpose: This quantitative study intended to protective measures. The ANOVA results
investigate people's awareness regarding RA revealed significant differences in people's
9262, the Anti-Violence Against Women and awareness of RA 9262 by age, marital status,
Their Children Act of 2004, and to propose educational attainment, employment status,
an intervention based on the study results. and the number of years living together.
Materials and Methods: There were 384 Those with better awareness of the said law
respondents selected through stratified sampling are the 42 to 49-year-olds, married, with
who answered the standardized survey higher educational attainments, with higher
questionnaires. The respondents were 18 years employment status, and with a partner for
old and above and randomly picked. more than ten years.
Furthermore, the research design in this study Implications to Theory, Practice and
was quantitative, non-experimental, and Policy: The study offered intervention
descriptive-correlational. After the collection of strategies to increase awareness of the A-
data, responses were encoded for data analysis. VAWC law at the community level. The local
Mean and Standard Deviation statistics government unit of Tagum City may target
described the respondents' awareness of the awareness-raising and education campaigns
protection, liability, physical violence, sexual to reach those groups with lower levels of
violence, psychological violence, penalties, and awareness and understanding. Future
protective measures of RA 9262. Analysis of researchers may investigate other factors that
Variance (ANOVA) determined the significance influence awareness and understanding of RA
of the difference between variables. 9262 among different demographic groups.
Findings: The mean and standard deviation Policy makers may also include updating of
showed high respondents' awareness of all the gender and development related laws to
salient provisions of RA 9262: subject of improve proposed intervention strategies.
protection, subject to liability, physical Keywords: Public Administration, RA 9262,
violence, sexual violence, psychological Anti-Violence, Women, Children Act, A-
violence, economic violence penalties, and VAWC Law, Awareness

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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Republic Act 9262, also known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children
Act, remains largely unknown to the majority of people in the Philippines, as indicated by
several studies (Caban, 2022; De Asis et al., 2021; Gabriel, 2017; Mabilangan et al., 2019).
Globally, violence against women is a significant problem, with 35% experiencing physical
or sexual violence from intimate or non-intimate partners (United Nations, 2022; UN
Women, 2022). In the Philippines, there were 5,339 reported cases of violence against
women and children in the first half of 2022, with nearly 700 cases in Northern Mindanao
alone. However, these figures only represent reported incidents and there may be numerous
unreported cases (Lagsa, 2022). Addressing this issue is crucial to preventing further
suffering among women at the hands of their partners.
Research by Gonzalez III et al. in 2022 revealed that educated women who experienced
sexual abuse were likelier to report such incidents to authorities, primarily because they
were aware of the legal consequences. This statement underscores the significant
connection between information, education, and communication (IEC), educational
achievement, and awareness of Republic Act 9262, as demonstrated in Caban's 2022 study.
Furthermore, the impact of awareness was evident in how many individuals gained
knowledge of the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (AVAWC) law
through television programs that discussed intimate relationship abuse. RA 9262 awareness
empowers women facing domestic violence by informing them of their rights and legal
protections, educating them about what constitutes violence and its consequences, and
offering guidance on seeking help and support, ultimately helping to prevent violence.
The enactment of RA 9262 aims to raise awareness among women about their rights against
abusive husbands and protect their innocent children from abuse. Additionally, it seeks to
ensure that women victims of physical harm continue to receive the financial support
entitled to them by law (Philippine Commission on Women, 2022). RA 9262 encompasses
various forms of violence, such as sexual violence, psychological violence, and economic
abuse (Abarca, 2022). Despite its importance, only a small percentage of Filipinos know
and comprehend RA 9262 (Caban, 2022; Caparas & Amparado, 2012; Gabriel, 2017;
Mabilangan et al., 2019; Santiago & Aya, 2014).
In the Philippines, a joint policy document was signed by the Department of Justice, the
Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Department of the Interior and
Local Government, aiming to expand emergency hotline coverage. This policy allo ws
women, children, and others experiencing gender-based violence emergencies to call the
toll-free E911 hotline. This initiative has also created opportunities to introduce gender -
sensitive and survivor-centric care concepts to government agencies. The overarching
mission continually enhances the government's response to alleviate victim -survivor
challenges (Chi & Tolosa, 2022).
Problem Statement
Only a small percentage of people in the Philippines are knowledgeable about the law on
anti-violence against women and their children (RA 9262) (Caban, 2022; De Asis et al.,

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2021; Gabriel, 2017; Mabilangan etal., 2019). Violence against women is a pressing global
social issue. Thirty-five percent of women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual
intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence (United Nations, 2022; UN
Women, 2022). A search on the internet showed that there had been many studies on
awareness of RA 9262 in some parts of the country but none in Tagum City. Significantly,
a research gap existed in the public awareness of A-VAWC law (RA 9262) in Tagum City.
Therefore, this study is relevant and timely to help disseminate information about RA 9262
and eventually lessen the occurrence of violence against women and their children.
The primary aim of this study is to conduct a comparative-evaluative examination of the
level of public awareness in Tagum City regarding Anti-Violence Against Women and
Their Children (A-VAWC). This research intends to establish a foundation for developing
effective community information dissemination and educational initiatives.
Objectives of the Study
Firstly, the study assesses the significance of differences in awareness levels among
respondents, categorized according to their demographic profiles. This endeavor aims to
elucidate the influence of age, gender, educational attainment, and other demographic
variables on A-VAWC awareness. Secondly, the study's findings will formulate a
comprehensive dissemination plan, which will address the unique awareness needs of
distinct demographic groups within Tagum City, ensuring that information dissemination
efforts are precise and impactful.
Theoretical Framework
This study is anchored on the following theories: The Cycle of Violence Theory by Lenore
E. Walker, the Attachment Theory by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, and the Social
Learning Theory by Alberto Bandura. The Cycle of Violence Theory suggests that patterns
of violence experienced in childhood will repeat in adulthood. For instance, victims of
violence and maltreatment will continue that pattern by perpetrating violence and
maltreatment when they become adults. Attachment theory can help us understand why
perpetrators behave the way they do. It shows how childhood experiences affect how people
handle close relationships. Attachment theory can help us understand why perpetrators
behave the way they do. It shows how childhood experiences affect how people handle
close relationships. Therapists can use this to tailor their interventions to the client's
attachment status. This means that one-size-fits-all approaches will not work. Attachment
theory also shows that domestic violence is not just caused by social conditioning but also
by psychological and biological factors. So while social changes are essential, violence will
not stop unless these factors are addressed.
Social Learning Theory is a common way to explain marital violence. It says that people
learn behavior from what they see as children. This includes violence learned from family
members or by witnessing violence. This behavior is reinforced in childhood and used in
adulthood to deal with stress or resolve conflicts. Children learn what is "appropriate" for
intimate relationships by watching their parents and others. If a child grows up in a family
where anger and aggression are used to handle stress, they are more likely to use those

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behaviors as adults. The family teaches that violence is acceptable and effective for solving
problems.
Conceptual Framework

Figure 1: The Conceptual Framework of the Study

2.0 MATERIALS AND METHODS

There were 384 respondents selected through stratified sampling who answered the
standardized survey questionnaires. The respondents were 18 years old and above and
randomly picked. The instrument used to collect the data was a survey questionnaire about
the Republic Act 9262. The panel of experts validated the items, earning a validity index
of 4.5. Moreover, the questionnaire underwent pilot testing, yielding a Cronbach's Alpha
of .984. Both the validity index and Cronbach Alpha ratings indicated the high acceptability
of the results, indicating that the items were consistent and reliable.
The research design in this study was quantitative, non-experimental, and descriptive-
correlational. Quantitative because the study measured numerical data (Bloomfield & Fisher,
2019; Rutberg & Bouikidis, 2018). Non-experimental because it pertained to non-causal
statistical relationships between variables (Seeram, 2021). The study was also descriptive as it
described the characteristics of the population studied, focusing on the "what" rather than the
"why" of the topic (George & Mallery, 2018; Kaliyadan & Kulkarni, 2019; Mishra, Pandey,
Singh, Gupta, Sahu, & Keshri, 2019). The study tested the significance of the differences in the
variances between variables.

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The data collection started with writing a request to conduct the study to the mayor of Tagum
City, with the endorsement letter from the dean of the professional schools of the University of
Mindanao. Before administering the questionnaire, the researcher also complied with the
University of Mindanao Ethics Research Committee (UMERC) requirements. Then, after the
approval, the researcher immediately administered the questionnaire to the 47 respondents from
each barangay in Tagum City. After the collection of data, responses were encoded for data
analysis. Mean and Standard Deviation statistics described the respondents' awareness of the
protection, liability, physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence, penalties, and
protective measures of RA 9262. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) determined the significance of
the difference between variables.

3.0 FINDINGS
In Table 1 is presented the respondents' age, educational attainment, employment status, marital
status, and years of living with the partner. These characteristics and information are necessary
for classifying the 300 respondents to achieve the purpose of this study. The age bracket with
the most respondents was 26-33 (f=70, or 23.33%), followed by 18-25 and 50 and above, which
tied at f=67, or 22.34%. Age bracket 34-41 had a frequency of 56, or 18.67 percent. Age bracket
42-49 had the lowest number (f=40, or 13.33%) of respondents. Moreover, the data also show
the educational attainment of 300 respondents. The majority of the respondents (51.33%) have
attained a college-level education, while only 1% have only completed elementary school. The
next largest group are those who have completed high school (32.33%), followed by those who
have completed graduate school (12.33%), and finally, those who have completed post-graduate
studies (3.01%).

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Table 1: Profile of Respondents

Indicator Frequency (f) Percentage
n=300 100%
Age
18-25 67 22.34
26-33 70 23.33
34-41 56 18.66
42-49 40 13.33
50 & above 67 22.34
Educational Attainment
Elementary 3 1
High School 97 32.33
College 154 51.33
Graduate School 37 12.33
Post Graduate 9 3.01
Employment Status
Permanent 130 43.33
Casual 51 17
Job Order 114 38
N/A 5 1.67
Marital Status
Single 90 30
Married 194 64.67
Widowed 9 3
Separated 7 2.33
Number of Years Living Together with a Partner
Less than ten years 101 33.67
More than ten years 132 44
N/A 67 22.33
On the other hand, the employment data show that the largest group (43.33%) have permanent
employment, followed by those on job order (38%), and then those who are casually employed
(17%). Meanwhile, a small percentage of the respondents (1.67%) did not disclose their
employment status (N/A). Furthermore, the data show that most respondents (64.67%) are
married, while 30% are single. In addition, a small percentage are widowed (3%) or separated
(2.33%). Finally, the largest group (44%) have been living together with a partner for more than
ten years, while 33.67% have been living together for less than ten years. Therefore, a significant
percentage (22.33%) responded that this item did not apply to them.
Level of Awareness of Republic Act 9262
In Table 2 is displayed the data on respondents' level of awareness of RA 9262. The data shows
the level of awareness of RA 9262 among respondents. The indicators are the salient features of

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the law, such as the subject of protection, subject of liability, physical violence, sexual violence,
psychological violence, economic violence, penalties, and protective measures. The mean
represents the average level of awareness for each indicator, and the descriptive level specifies
whether the awareness is high or low. In this case, all indicators have a high level of awareness,
with a mean ranging from 3.44 to 3.65. The standard deviation (SD) also measures the diffusion
values in the data set. A low SD indicates that the values tend to be close to the mean (average)
of the data set, while a high standard deviation indicates the spread out of values over a broader
range.
Table 2: Level of Respondents' Awareness of Republic Act 9262
Indicators SD Mean Descriptive Level
Subject of Protection 1.00 3.64 High
Subject of Liability 1.05 3.44 High
Physical Violence 1.06 3.65 High
Sexual Violence 1.11 3.60 High
Psychological Violence 1.02 3.57 High
Economic Violence 1.00 3.51 High
Penalties 1.06 3.52 High
Protective Measures 1.01 3.46 High
Overall 0.89 3.55 High
In Table 2 is also shown that the standard deviation for each indicator ranges from 0.89 to 1.11,
which suggests some variation in the level of awareness among respondents for each indicator.
All standard deviation values ranged from 1.00 to 1.11. Therefore, a standard deviation of 1.00
and a mean of 3.5 is within the typical data set. RA 9262 protects a range of individuals who
may be affected by violence. These individuals include the wife or former wife of the offender,
women with whom the offender has had a dating or sexual relationship, and the offender's child.
The law also protects children who are minors, whether they are legitimate or illegitimate
children of the woman. Additionally, RA 9262 protects individuals 18 or older with physical or
mental illnesses who cannot make decisions for themselves. All of these individuals are subjects
of protection under RA 9262.RA 9262 was enacted for women to be more aware of their rights
against their abusive husband as well as to shield their innocent children from any form of abuse.
In addition, RA 9262’s sections provide reliefs to women not only from being physically harmed
but likewise to ensure that the victim and her children will continue to enjoy the financial support
that they are entitled to as provided by law (Philippine Commission on Women, 2022). As to the
subject of liability (persons liable) for violating RA 9262, they are the following: husband or
former husband, live-in partner/ex-live-in partner, dating partner or ex-dating partner,
boyfriend/girlfriend, or ex-boyfriend/ex-girlfriend, any person with whom the victim has a
common child, and father of the child-victim.
RA 9262 covers several acts of violence, among of which are physical violence, sexual violence,
psychological violence, and economic abuse (Abarca, 2022). Physical violence under RA 9262
means acts that cause pain and result in injury to women and children, including slapping, hitting,
scratching, biting, pushing, or shoving, punching, grabbing, throwing, choking, shaking, using

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or pointing a weapon (knife, gun, or other objects). Encouraging others to do any of these is
violence.
Under RA 9262, sexual violence includes a range of actions that are sexual and harmful to the
victim. These actions can include rape, sexual harassment, and acts of lasciviousness. Sexual
violence can also involve physically attacking the sexual parts of the victim's body, treating the
victim as a sex object, making sexually suggestive remarks, and forcing the victim to watch
obscene or indecent material. Additionally, forcing the victim to perform indecent acts or make
films of such acts, as well as prostituting the victim, are also considered forms of sexual violence
under RA 9262.
Psychological violence refers to actions or behaviors that cause mental and emotional harm to
the victim. This can include things like intimidation, harassment, stalking, public humiliation,
verbal abuse, and infidelity. It can also involve exposing the victim to the abuse of others, such
as family members or pets, or interfering with the victim's right to see their children. These
actions can cause significant emotional distress and suffering for the victim. Economic violence
are actions that aim to make a woman financially dependent on her husband or partner. This
violence prevents the woman from engaging in a legitimate profession, business, or activity
without valid reasons. It can also involve withdrawing financial support from the woman and her
children, depriving her of financial resources or the right to use and enjoy shared property, and
destroying household property. These actions are forms of economic violence because they limit
the woman's financial independence and control over her life.
The penalties for violating RA 9262 vary depending on the severity of the offense. For example,
if someone causes slight physical injuries or attempts to place a woman or child in fear of
imminent physical harm, they may be in prison for one month and one day to 6 months. If
someone causes less serious physical injuries or controls the conjugal or shared money or
properties, they may face imprisonment for six months and one day to 6 years. If someone causes
serious physical injuries, sexual abuse, or conduct that causes substantial emotional or
psychological distress to the woman or child, they may face imprisonment for six years and one
day to 12 years. In addition to imprisonment, the law may require the perpetrator to pay a fine of
not less than P100,000 but not more than P300,000 and undergo mandatory psychological
counseling or psychiatric treatment. They must also report their compliance to the court.
(Philippine Commission on Women, 2022)
The Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (A-VAWC) law provides several
protective measures to help victims of violence. These measures include protection orders issued
by the barangay, which can prohibit the perpetrator from committing acts of violence or
threatening to commit them. The law also allows for the temporary or permanent removal of the
perpetrator from the victim's residence, regardless of who owns the residence. The government
may also grant the victim temporary or permanent custody of any children involved.
Additionally, the court may require the perpetrator to provide financial support to the victim and
their child if they are legally entitled to (Philippine Commission on Women, 2022).
In all of these items in the survey questionnaire, the respondents have different levels of
awareness, which explains the value of the standard deviation. Nevertheless, the findings showed

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that 68% of the response fell under the typical data set, and 32% fell way below or farther away
from the mean.
Significance of the Difference in Respondents’ Awareness of the Salient Features of RA
9262 Analyzed by Profile
In Table 3 is contained the result of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) on the awareness of
respondents regarding the salient provisions of RA 9262, such as Subject of protection, Subject
of liability, physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence, economic violence,
penalties, and protective measures when analyzed by age, educational attainment, employment
status, marital status, and the number of years living together. The Analysis of Variance
(ANOVA) tests the differences between two or more means. Analysis of variance (ANOVA)
determines whether the mean scores of two or more groups are significantly different. It does
this by comparing the amount of variation between the groups to the amount of variation within
them. If the variation between the groups is significantly more extensive than within the groups,
then the mean difference between the group is significant.
In Table 3 is illustrated the significant difference in respondents' awareness of the salient features
of RA 9262 in terms of age. There are five age groups: (A) 18-25, (B) 26-33, (C) 34-41, (D) 42-
49, and (E) 50-year-olds and above. The overall result showed that age groups 18-25 (A) and 34-
41 (C) significantly differ in their level of awareness of all the salient features of RA 9262, with
Group C (M=3.87; SD=0.60) as more aware than Group A (M=3.12; SD=0.84) given the mean
scores. Group C (34-41) has better mean scores than Group A (18-25).
On the other hand, Groups A and D have a significant difference in the level of awareness in all
the salient features of RA 9262, with Group D (42-49-year-olds) than Group A (18-25-year-olds).
Group D has a better mean score (M=3.96; SD=0.57) than Group A (M=3.12; SD=0.84). In other
words, groups C and D are better aware of the Anti-VAWC Act 2004. Only a small section of the
Filipino people is aware of and understand RA 9262 (Caban, 2022; Caparas & Amparado, 2012;
Gabriel, 2017; Mabilangan et al., 2019; Santiago & Aya, 2014). Incidentally, many factors could
contribute to this difference in awareness, such as differences in education, exposure to media,
personal experiences, and social networks. Furthermore, the result denotes that age is a factor in
awareness of the anti-VAWC law. Awareness comes with maturity. The more a person matures,
the more aware he or she becomes of his or her environment and acts accordingly.

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Table 3: Significant Difference in Respondents' Awareness of RA 9262 in Terms of Age

Age
Groups
Salient 50 and
18-25 26-33 34-41 42-49 Sig. with
Features of Above Total F
(A) (B) (C) (D) Significant
RA 9262 (E)
Difference
X̄ SD X̄ SD X̄ SD X̄ SD X̄ SD X̄ SD
Subject of A& C
3.19 0.92 3.59 0.99 4.01 0.68 4.02 0.75 3.61 1.24 3.64 1.00 7.391 .000
Protection A&D
Subject of A& C
3.03 1.00 3.53 1.03 3.61 0.82 3.86 0.81 3.36 1.26 3.44 1.05 5.028 .001
Liability A&D
Physical A& C
3.21 1.09 3.57 1.06 3.94 0.73 4.15 0.68 3.63 1.26 3.65 1.06 6.615 .000
Violence A&D
A& C
Sexual
3.13 1.01 3.45 1.08 3.98 0.85 4.14 0.71 3.58 1.36 3.60 1.11 8.080 .000 A & D
Violence
B&D
Psychological A& C
3.20 0.96 3.40 1.03 3.91 0.83 3.93 .72 3.61 1.20 3.57 1.02 5.878 .000
Violence A&D
Economic A& C
3.09 0.94 3.53 0.95 3.72 0.83 3.82 0.82 3.55 1.20 3.51 1.00 4.803 .001
Violence A&D
A& C
Penalties 3.04 1.06 3.47 1.03 3.89 0.87 3.84 0.86 3.57 1.16 3.52 1.06 6.530 .000
A&D
A& C
Protective A&D
3.04 1.01 3.26 1.04 3.85 0.64 3.92 0.71 3.51 1.16 3.46 1.01 8.674 .000
Measures B&C
B&D
A&C
Overall 3.12 0.84 3.48 0.82 3.87 0.60 3.96 0.57 3.56 1.15 3.56 0.89 8.716 .000
A&D

In Table 4 is displayed the significant difference in respondents' awareness of the salient features
of RA 9262 by educational attainment. The data revealed that the variables with significant
differences in awareness based on educational attainment are subject of protection, physical
violence, economic violence, and protective measures. The overall result revealed significant
differences in the level of awareness of RA 9262 between elementary and high school (A & B),
elementary and college (A & C), elementary and graduate school (A & D), and elementary and
post-graduate (A & E).

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Table 4: Significant Difference in Respondents' Awareness of RA 9262 in Terms of

Educational Attainment

Educational Attainment
Groups
Salient High Graduate Post
Elementary College Sig. with
Features of School School Graduate Total F
(A) (C) Significant
RA 9262 (B) (D) (E)
Difference
X̄ SD X̄ SD X̄ SD X̄ SD X̄ SD X̄ SD
A&B
Subject of A& C
1.53 0.76 3.50 1.05 3.72 1.01 3.79 0.67 3.91 0.47 3.64 1.00 4.645 .001
Protection A&D
A&E
Subject of
1.80 1.22 3.28 1.08 3.55 1.06 3.49 0.79 3.64 0.77 3.44 1.05 2.968 .020
Liability
A&B
Physical A& C
1.00 0.00 3.61 1.07 3.69 1.09 3.78 0.81 3.82 0.27 3.65 1.06 5.247 .000
Violence A&D
A&E
Sexual
1.93 1.01 3.54 1.19 3.63 1.14 3.74 0.72 3.80 0.48 3.60 1.11 2.047 .088
Violence
Psychological
2.27 1.70 3.64 0.97 3.53 1.11 3.61 0.68 3.80 0.44 3.57 1.02 1.546 .189
Violence
Economic
1.80 1.39 3.52 1.01 3.51 1.03 3.52 0.77 3.93 0.61 3.51 1.00 2.660 .033 A & E
Violence
Penalties 2.07 1.85 3.58 1.02 3.47 1.13 3.61 0.74 4.04 0.55 3.52 1.06 2.263 .062
A&B
Protective A& C
1.47 0.81 3.42 0.98 3.47 1.03 3.58 0.89 4.04 0.62 3.46 1.01 4.033 .003
Measures A&D
A&E
A&B
A&C
Overall 1.74 1.08 3.51 0.89 3.57 0.94 3.64 0.62 3.88 0.41 3.55 0.89 3.697 .006
A&D
A&E

However, there is no significant difference in their levels of awareness regarding being subject
of liability, sexual violence, psychological violence, and penalties. The not significant result
means that the amount of evidence to conclude the presence of a significant difference in the
level of awareness about RA 9262 between the groups compared was not enough. On the other
hand, the significant result means that the difference between groups did not occur by chance.
Ignorance of the law excuses no one (ignorantia juris non excusat). This maxim is a legal
principle holding that a person who is unaware of a law may not escape liability for violating
that law merely by being unaware of its content (The Informed Citizen, 2018).
The data also show that of all the groups, the post-graduate group had the most significant mean
score with the lowest standard deviation (M=3.88; SD=0.41), which indicates the homogeneity
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of all responses of the post-graduate group in the survey. Nevertheless, the results are not absolute
because of the potential limitations and sources of bias in the study. For example, the
questionnaire was in English, potentially explaining why the elementary group had the lowest
mean score because their English proficiency affected their ability to comprehend and answer
the questions accurately. Had the questionnaire been translated into Bisaya, the results might
have differed.
In Table 5 is presented the data on the significant difference in respondents' awareness of the
salient features of RA 9262 regarding employment status. Again, there were four groups
analyzed: Permanent (A), Casual (B), and Job Order (C), and those who did not indicate their
employment status, Not Applicable (N/A).
Those who did not disclose their employment status might have been those respondents below
25 years old and those still studying up to college. The overall result showed a significant
difference between groups A and D (permanent and N/A), B and D (Casual and N/A), and C and
D (Job Order and N/A). The result means that those with employment, especially permanent
status, are better aware of RA 9262. One reason for their awareness is that the Human Resource
Department usually includes RA 9262 when discussing employees' rights and benefits.

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Table 5: Significant Difference in Respondents' Awareness of RA 9262 in Terms of

Employment Status

Employment Status
Groups
Salient
Permanent Casual Job Order N/A Sig. with
Features of Total F
(A) (B) (C) (D) Significant
RA 9262
Difference
Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD
A&D
Subject of
3.80 1.00 3.77 0.79 3.49 1.00 1.68 0.67 3.64 1.00 9.456 .000 B & D
Protection
C&D
A& C
Subject of
3.66 0.97 3.53 1.01 3.21 1.07 2.00 1.03 3.44 1.05 7.613 .000 A & D
Liability
B&D
A&D
Physical
3.77 0.99 3.84 1.07 3.52 1.04 1.56 0.88 3.65 1.06 8.679 .000 B & D
Violence
C&D
Sexual A&D
3.69 1.04 3.89 1.09 3.42 1.13 2.28 1.03 3.60 1.11 4.979 .002
Violence B&D
Psychological B&C
3.60 1.03 3.92 1.03 3.42 0.93 2.52 1.25 3.57 1.02 4.872 .003
Violence B&D
A&D
Economic
3.64 0.97 3.70 1.13 3.35 0.90 2.08 1.07 3.51 1.00 6.031 .001 B & D
Violence
C&D

Penalties 3.64 1.01 3.54 1.18 3.44 1.01 2.40 1.40 3.52 1.06 2.746 .043

A&D
Protective
3.65 0.99 3.46 0.97 3.32 0.98 2.00 0.94 3.46 1.01 6.050 .001 B & D
Measures
C&D
A&D
Overall 3.69 0.86 3.71 0.86 3.40 0.86 2.07 0.93 3.55 0.89 7.716 .000 B & D
C&D

For example, under RA 9262, victims can apply for paid leave of absence of up to 10 days. These
ten days are in addition to other paid leaves provided by the Labor Code and Civil Service Rules.
In addition, the victim can extend the leave depending on the statement in the protection order.
In Table 6 are displayed the significant differences in the awareness of respondents of RA 9262
in terms of marital status. In the overall result, the data showed no significant difference among
the groups, which means that marital status does not significantly impact an individual's
awareness of RA 9262.

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Table 6: Significant Difference in Respondents' Awarenenss of RA 9262 in Terms of

Marital Status

Marital Status
With
Single Married Widow Separated
Total Mea
Factor (A) (B) (C) (D) F Sig
n
Mea Mea Mea Mea Mea Diff.
SD SD SD SD SD
n n n n n
Subject of 0.9 1.0 0.7 0.6 1.0 2.78 .04
3.41 3.72 3.80 4.17 3.64
Protection 4 4 3 0 0 6 1
Subject of 0.9 1.1 1.1 0.6 1.0 .57
3.36 3.46 3.31 3.89 3.44 .668
Liability 1 1 4 3 5 2
Physical 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.4 1.0 2.52 .05
3.48 3.70 3.58 4.51 3.65
Violence 7 6 2 0 6 4 8
Sexual 0.9 1.1 0.8 0.6 1.1 2.67 .04
3.38 3.66 4.07 4.20 3.60
Violence 9 6 8 3 1 5 7
Psychologica 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.6 1.0 3.05 .02
3.37 3.61 4.11 4.20 3.57
l Violence 0 3 5 5 2 1 9
Economic 0.9 1.0 0.9 0.7 1.0 4.73 .00
3.23 3.59 4.13 4.00 3.51 A &B
Violence 5 1 1 5 0 9 3
1.0 1.0 0.7 0.4 1.0 3.46 .01
Penalties 3.32 3.56 4.07 4.34 3.52
3 7 1 6 6 9 7
Protective 0.9 1.0 1.0 0.9 1.0 5.05 .00
3.18 3.55 3.98 4.20 3.46 A &B
Measures 5 1 4 2 1 3 2
0.8 0.9 0.5 0.5 0.8 3.60 .01
Overall 3.34 3.61 3.88 4.19 3.55
3 2 4 2 9 8 4
*p<0.05
The result suggests that other factors may be more critical in determining an individual's
awareness of this law. The result further means that it does not matter whether a person is single,
married, or widowed to know and understand domestic violence. Domestic violence is a
universal problem. Persons can be victims of domestic violence regardless of marital status. In
addition, domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation,
faith, or class. Domestic violence can shatter people's lives, resulting in some experiencing
mental illness and depression, physical disability to some, and homelessness, alcoholism and
drug addiction in others as a result of living an abusive relationship. Governments across the
globe are increasingly recognizing and responding to the dangers of children exposed to domestic
violence inflicted by men. Nevertheless, even if not directly harmed, exposure to violence may
impact their development (Arai et al., 2021). Although children have a right to live in a safe and
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violence-free environment (United Nations, 1989; 2022), feminist scholarship points to social
structures and institutions that facilitate men's use of domestic violence and further disempower
women with gendered power dynamics and policy responses (Azzopardi, 2021; De Simone &
Heward-Belle, 2020; Douglas, 2018; Kuskoff & Parsell, 2020; Maher et al., 2021).
On the other hand, being married does not necessarily increase one's awareness of the reality of
domestic violence. Anyone in a relationship can be a victim of domestic violence, regardless of
marital status. Awareness of domestic violence and its impact can come from various sources,
such as personal experience, education, media, and community outreach programs. Although the
overall result has no significant difference, the awareness of RA 9262 based on marital status
showed significant differences between single and married respondents in economic and
protective measures, upon scrutiny of the data per indicator. Married women are more aware of
economic violence than single individuals, which suggests that married women directly
experience or are directly affectedby this, especially by irresponsible partners.
Often, mothers choose to end their relationship with their partners to keep their children safe.
However, leaving a violent partner is a time of heightened risks for the safety of mothers and
children. Expectations to leave have thus far been heavily criticized by feminist scholars, both
for overlooking these risks and for ignoring the many structural barriers that mothers face to
safely and permanently ending relationships with their violent partners (Azzopardi, 2021;
Kuskoff & Parsell, 2020; Maher et al., 2021). These barriers include lack of financial resources
and access to affordable housing which have arguably been exacerbated by the COVID-19
pandemic (Pawson et al., 2021; United Nations, 2020).
In Table 7 is presented the data on significant differences in respondents' awareness of RA 9262
regarding years of living together. The N/A (C) group refers to single respondents or those who
did not belong to the two choices. The overall result showed a significant difference between
Groups B and C, with Group B having a higher level of awareness than Group C. On the other
hand, looking at the individual results showed significant differences in the subject of protection
(A & C, and B & C), physical violence (B & C), sexual violence (B & C), economic violence (A
& C, and B & C), and protective measures (B & C). However, the respondents' awareness of RA
9262 concerning liability, psychological violence, and penalties did not differ significantly.

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Table 7: Significant Difference in Respondents' Awareness of RA 9262 in Terms of Years

of Living Together
Number of Years Living Together with a Partner
Less than More than Means
N/A
Factor 10 years 10 years Total F Significance having
(C)
(A) (B) difference
Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD
Subject of A&C
3.72 0.86 3.76 1.09 3.29 0.96 3.64 1.00 5.429 .005
Protection B&C
Subject of
3.44 0.98 3.52 1.13 3.28 0.97 3.44 1.05 1.131 .324
Liability
Physical
3.66 1.00 3.78 1.07 3.38 1.10 3.65 1.06 3.201 .042 B&C
Violence
Sexual
3.59 1.08 3.78 1.16 3.27 0.96 3.60 1.11 4.922 .008 B&C
Violence
Psychological
3.54 1.07 3.71 1.00 3.34 0.95 3.57 1.02 3.041 .049
Violence
Economic A&C
3.60 1.01 3.67 1.01 3.08 0.85 3.51 1.00 8.657 .000
Violence B&C
Penalties 3.45 1.14 3.66 1.01 3.37 1.00 3.52 1.06 1.992 .138
Protective
3.45 1.04 3.64 1.00 3.14 0.91 3.46 1.01 5.554 .004 B&C
Measures
Overall 3.56 0.82 3.69 0.94 3.27 0.83 3.55 0.89 5.015 .007 B&C
*P<0.05
The results convey that those living with their partners for more than ten years have higher levels
of awareness about domestic violence than those living together for less than ten years or as
single individuals. Further, the result suggests that more years living with a partner exposes one
to any form of domestic violence or all forms of it. The usual forms of domestic violence
experienced by women are physical, emotional, or sexual.

4.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusion
In this study, the researcher examined the awareness and understanding of RA 9262 among
various groups. The findings show general awareness of the existence of this law; however,
there are still gaps in understanding its provisions and how it can be used to protect women
and children from violence. The following sections will present the conclusions and
recommendations for addressing these gaps and improving awareness and understanding
of RA 9262.

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The respondents' level of awareness was high. It suggests a high level of awareness and
understanding of the law and its provisions among the population surveyed. This could be
seen as a positive outcome, indicating that efforts to raise awareness and educate people
about RA 9262 have been successful. The implication of these findings is that this high
level of awareness and understanding could lead to increased reporting of violence against
women and children and more effective use of the law to protect victims.
The study found significant differences in the level of awareness of RA 9262 based on the
profile of respondents, such as age, educational attainment, marital status, employment
status, and years of living together. These findings suggest that certain demographic groups
may have higher or lower levels of awareness and understanding of the law. This study
concludes that the higher the age, the better the awareness. As education level increases,
so does the level of awareness. An improvement in employment status is associated with
an increase in the level of awareness. Individuals who are married tend to have a greate r
understanding of RA 9262 and an increase in the number of years spent living together is
associated with a greater understanding of RA 9262.
Moreover, a high awareness of RA 9262 among the population surveyed may support the
theories used in this study: The Social Contract Theory and the Rule of Law. However, it
is important to note that awareness of the law is just one factor that can influence behavior
and attitudes of individuals.
A high level of awareness of RA 9262 could potentially disrupt the cycle of violence by
providing individuals with information about their rights and the legal consequences of
violent behavior. However, it is important to note that awareness alone may not be
sufficient to change behavior and attitudes. Other factors, such as s ocial norms, economic
conditions, and access to support services, may also play a role.
Recommendations
Based on the conclusions given above, the researcher suggests the following
recommendations: Dissemination of the findings of this study maybe done amon g the
different LGUs, especially in Tagum City as it is important to consider that awareness of
the law can influence behavior and attitudes of the people at the community. This includes
comprehensive knowledge of RA 9262 through Education and Awareness Raising to reach
those groups with lower levels of awareness and understanding.
While awareness of the penalties associated with RA 9262 may deter some individuals from
engaging in abusive behavior, it does not necessarily mean that violence against women and
children has been eliminated or reduced. Therefore, awareness may not be sufficient to prevent
all instances of violence against women and children. Economic conditions and access to support
services can also contribute in changing the behaviors and attitudes of individuals. Thus, skills
trainings and seminars, support services, and advocacy may be encouraged.
Policy makers may also include updating of gender and development related laws to
improve proposed intervention strategies. Future researchers may investigate other factors
that influence awareness and understanding of RA 9262 among different demographic
groups.
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