PCG Hybrid Forum Surveys, Elaborates on Key Chinese Statutes to Combat Violence Against Women (VAW)
Immigration and Visa Rules Also Clarified

SHANGHAI –  In observance of the coming 18-Day Campaign to End Violence against Women (VAW) the Philippine Consulate General organized and hosted a hybrid (online/in-person) “Forum on Chinese Law relating to VAW” on 12 November.

The 18-Day Campaign takes place on 25 November to 12 December of every year, as mandated by Proclamation 1172 s. 2006 and Republic Act 10398.

Deputy Consul General Marlowe A. Miranda keynoted the event. Lawyers ZHANG Wenxian and XU Junjie of the Shanghai office of internationally the renowned Beijing Yingke Law Firm served as guest resource persons.

Atty. ZHANG gave a presentation on VAW as addressed by the PRC’s Civil Code, Criminal Law, and the Law of the PRC on the Protection of the Rights of Women (1999, amended 2005).

She touched on legal definitions, relevant and relevant provisions of law on physical, sexual and domestic abuse, and notable cases. Crucially, she also explained mechanisms for recourse to law and seeking financial compensation via civil litigation or “criminal incidental civil litigation”, application for a personal safety protection such as through restraining orders.

Recognizing the vulnerability of women migrants and the nexus between VAW and migration, Atty. XU delivered a presentation on China’s visa and immigration rules, and residence permit applications and renewal.

“In China as in the Philippines, there is a need to systematically address social and cultural norms that perpetuate VAW,” emphasized Deputy CG Miranda as he opened the event. Later, during the Open Forum, he assured the audience of the Consulate General’s readiness to extend assistance to Filipinos suffering from gender-based violence and seeking help, and to coordinate with local authorities as warranted.

Individuals seeking assistance from VAW and other forms of gender-based violence may dial hotline 021-962525; 110 for criminal act reporting/handling; 120 for injury or medical emergency; or 12345 (government services hotline).

The Consulate General, for its part, may be reached via its WeChat account (ID: PhinShanghai) or emergency hotline: (+86-21) 139-1747-7112. END