Tougher measures against transit sexual harassment backed
'The LCSP supports the DoTr and LTFRB in the fight against sexual harassment in public transport.'
Department of Transportation (DOTr) logo
DAILY TRIBUNE image
Daily Tribune'The LCSP supports the DoTr and LTFRB in the fight against sexual harassment in public transport.'
Department of Transportation (DOTr) logo
DAILY TRIBUNE image
A commuter advocacy group expressed its support Monday for the Department of Transportation (DoTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) as they move to strengthen anti-sexual harassment measures in public transit.
The Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection (LCSP) said the initiative should also involve the Department of Justice to ensure the swift filing of criminal charges against offenders.
Atty. Ariel Inton, founder of the LCSP, cited that sexual harassment most frequently occurs during rush hours when female passengers are often crowded by men during the boarding process.
To address the issue, Inton urged the implementation of organized queuing at terminals and loading zones. He said this would prevent "zombie-like" rushes for seats, which often disadvantage pregnant women, senior citizens, children, and persons with disabilities.
"The LCSP supports the DoTr and LTFRB in the fight against sexual harassment in public transport," Inton said in Filipino. "We need more than just reminders for drivers and operators; we need the immediate imposition of penalties on those proven guilty."
The push for collaboration follows recent joint efforts between the LTFRB and the DoJ to crack down on unregistered "colorum" vehicles. The LCSP is now asking LTFRB chairperson Vigor Mendoza and Acting Justice Secretary Frederick A. Vida to include the prosecution of transit-related crimes in their coordinated operations.