Stars #SpeakUp on abuse

The Directors’ Guild of the Philippines Inc. (DGPI) recently came out with a statement condemning “sexual harassment and other forms of abuse in the entertainment industry.”

The guild is currently revising its Code of Conduct, “to aid the industry in achieving a safer, more equitable and accountable workplace for everyone.”

The Inquirer sought the opinion of different actresses on this latest development—a crucial first step in confronting, challenging and changing an inequitable situation, a “scourge” that is “endemic” not only in Philippine society, but in the entertainment industry, as well.

Sarsi Emmanuelle

First, actors and actresses should have self-respect so that their colleagues would sense that and automatically they would be respected, as well. There should be a … [provision in the Code of Conduct of] the guild that if anyone committed such acts, he or she would receive punishment and suspension. There should also be exclusive and separate dressing rooms for men and women.

G Töngi

This statement has been a long time coming, and I’m glad that because of the relevancy of the #MeToo movement, the DGPI has finally jumped on board. Now, instead of calling people “victims” when they have spoken out against abusers, let’s instead hail them as “survivors.”

Despite the traumatic experiences many have gone through, they/we power through. No longer should they/we be ashamed or embarrassed to call out these perpetrators, who also happen to be in positions of power. We as a Filipino society must work to remove the stigma from speaking out against sexual harassment.

Annicka Dolonius

It’s great that the DGPI is condemning sexual assault and misconduct in the industry, but I don’t believe that real change can happen until those who have been accused are held accountable for their actions. We’ve seen results with what happened with Weinstein in Hollywood, but I wonder if we will ever have that kind of movement here?

Bing Pimentel

I believe sexual harassment begins in familiarity or the misinterpretation of behavior. There is such a thing as proper decorum—be it in the workplace or wherever.

If one sets the boundaries for oneself and stays within them … surely such incidents can be avoided. Of course, setting rules in the workplace would be more ideal. Too bad proper decorum isn’t inherent in everyone.

Bituin Escalante

It’s good to see that the directors are taking a step in the right direction. I just feel that the best way to make work a safe space is to address the misogyny that is already deeply ingrained in our society.

As directors, they are in a position to call it out if and when it happens. It’s best not to wait for sexual harassment cases to occur, but to nip them in the bud by creating a safe working environment.

Cherie Gil

I am a staunch advocate for women’s rights. When the #MeToo movement started in the US, I felt it was about time. Aside from sexual harassment, there’s the fight for equal opportunities and wages, too.

The Philippines has had two female presidents. Good or bad, that has never happened in the US. Also, because we’re predominantly Catholic, our society is matriarchal. But then again, there are numerous battered and abused women in our country—mainly because they aren’t aware of their individual rights.

With this issue being discussed openly, it makes people, especially women, become more aware of their value and importance. It’s a good starting point in creating platforms, programs … that will push awareness, empowerment and educational opportunities for women.

Our industry should be professionalized … to create a safe workplace, protected and backed up by legal counsel and labor laws that should be enforced for all issues and problems, including sexual harassment.

Gina Alajar

It’s a timely statement. It’s good that the guild is working on it, even though there are no high-profile cases yet. It would hopefully serve as a preventive measure.

Maria Isabel Lopez

The statement is way overdue. That has been the game since time immemorial. Talent scouts, casting directors, filmmakers and producers corrupt young wannabes with the promise of fame and fortune. As a women’s rights advocate, and a Gabriela [member] … I believe women should rise up, expose and bring this issue to light.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. There have been cases where aspirants would throw themselves at these predators in order to attain their dreams. Worse, their own parents would encourage it. Who are we to judge? But awareness is key.

Aiko Melendez

I support all the survivors. May they all unite and come out in the open … so their voices can be heard. So that any form of harassment would never be considered a stepping stone to stardom.

Iza Calzado

The statement that the DGPI has released is important for people to know that no matter what happens, they have an institution they can turn to should they be caught in a situation where they feel they have been sexually harassed, abused or assaulted; an institution that will hold perpetrators accountable and make sure that they go through due process to seek justice.
It’s about time for all of us to be vigilant as it may happen to anyone, especially those who do not have power or do not feel empowered. I firmly believe in men and women educating themselves with the idea of “basic consent.”