The recent alleged sexual harassment case involving an Air Force officer within the military highlights the importance of encouraging soldiers to speak out against violations under Republic Act 11313, commonly known as the Safe Spaces Act, a military official said on Tuesday.
Col. Ritza Ann Jovellanos, acting chief of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) Public Affairs, described the incident as an isolated case and emphasized that all personnel undergo training on gender sensitivity and the provisions of RA 11313.
“We know for a fact that people today are aware of their rights. That’s why they come forward and speak out when something happened,” Jovellanos said in a press conference in Camp Aguinaldo.
She noted that the reported issues within the military are being dealt with “maximum penalty.”
Last week, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) disclosed that a senior Air Force officer, accused of sexually harassing two staff members, has been placed under house arrest.
Meanwhile, Jovellanos mentioned that the alleged victims have been granted a mental health break after reporting the incident.
“They were offered legal assistance as well as psychological assistance. Although they opted to get their private counsel and to be psychologically checked outside. But they’re back at work,” she said.
AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla confirmed that the case is under an internal investigation, following the establishment of prima facie evidence sufficient to warrant further legal proceedings.
“The process is moving forward as it should. It is going to be handled by the book; due process will be conducted, and there will be no shortcuts to this… It will be shielded from any influence,” Padilla said.
“And it is clear that the AFP justice system will prevail accordingly,” she added.
Padilla emphasized that the PAF promptly responded to the accusation by requesting the convening of a General Court Martial.
Additionally, AFP Public Affairs Chief Xerxes Trinidad clarified that the military adheres to a structured, multi-step legal process to guarantee that all actions are fair, justified, and aligned with established protocols.
“Before any approval of any recommendation from any investigating body, said recommendations can still be reviewed first prior to their approval and before the convening of a general court martial,” he said.
“All options are being considered, and let’s assure that it’s going to be fair and there will be no cover-ups,” he added.
The accused Air Force official is currently facing administrative charges.
