Following the approval of House Bill 7836 that raises the age of statutory rape victims from 12 to 16, Agusan del Norte 1st District Representative Lawrence “Law” Fortun hopes for a stronger anti-rape and sexual abuse and exploitation law will be enacted by Christmas time.

According to a research by Save the Children, at least one in six children suffer from physical and verbal abuse during the pandemic.

This data was taken from a survey of 31,683 parents and caregivers, and 13,477 children aged between 11-17 years old in 46 countries.

“We need this signed into law already, especially now that we have a pandemic. Studies show there has been a significant spike of rape and sexual abuse cases owing to circumstances contributing to the further vulnerability of children and women,” said Fortun.

The Agusan del Norte representative believes that the new law will boost the fight against rape, sexual violence, abuse and exploitation against women, children, men, and the LGBTQ+ community. Hence, he pushes to expedite the passing of the measure at the Senate.

He added, “Congress heard and listened to the cries for justice of the victims of all ages, gender, and status in life.”

HB 7836 is a consolidation of 10 bills, including Fortun’s. Aside from that, he has also worked on the recently passed HB 7722 which penalizes workplace discrimination against women.

Photo Credit: Facebook/Lawrence ‘Law’ Fortun