No Means No: A Gentle Reminder of Our Right to Bodily Autonomy
The phrase ‘No Means No‘ powerfully combats sexual and gender-based aggression against women and children worldwide. Recognizing that sexual abuse can also affect men, it can also become a key phrase for setting personal boundaries for them.
No Means No: A Gentle Reminder of Our Right to Bodily Autonomy
For the record, the Philippine National Police recorded 12,964 rape cases between 2016 and 2021 which also considers the probability of marital rape. Therefore, the country’s laws consider any forced immoral act, even if committed by a spouse or partner, to be rape. A gentle reminder: respecting bodily autonomy is morally and lawfully right, hence the phrase, ‘No Means No‘.
You have control over your own body, and no one has the right to tell you otherwise. Many have raised concerns about this issue, which is why there are laws in place to protect women and children. And this includes protection for wives and children.
Marital Rights Protection: Laws That Protect Spouses
In marriage, both partners share equal rights. However, if one person forcibly engages in sexual relations with their spouse, the law can intervene.
Marital consent remains crucial because, as women, we have the right to decide whether we are comfortable with something. And, respecting your partner’s decision and consent is still a form of respecting their boundaries.
The Revised Family Code of 1988 says that a woman is no longer obligated to serve her husband. This certain law covers protection for women against unwanted acts by their husbands, saying it was never the wife’s obligation to provide gratification for their husbands. Historically, it has been predominantly women who have suffered from such immoral behavior by their husbands.
On the other hand, forcing such acts regardless of gender is morally wrong and punishable by law. Under Article 72 of the Family Code (Executive Order No. 209), if one spouse commits acts that endanger or dishonor the other, the aggrieved party may seek relief from the court. This law protects any party from harm caused by their legal spouse, regardless of gender, and ensures legal intervention once the matter is reported to the police.
Marital rape isn’t just a legal issue; it’s also a psychosocial and moral concern that requires personal reflection and counseling. This issue can also affect men, which is why the phrase ‘no means no’ applies to them as well. If any form of sexual violence occurs within a marriage or relationship, reach out to the nearest police station immediately. Remember, you are protected by these laws—your safety and rights matter.
