Philippines Rights Guide
How to Get a Domestic Violence Protection Order in the Philippines
RA 9262 (VAWC Act) allows you to get a free Barangay Protection Order within 24 hours and a court order within 72 hours. Here is exactly how.
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Direct Answer
Republic Act 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act) provides three types of protection orders: a Barangay Protection Order (BPO) issued within 24 hours by your barangay, a Temporary Protection Order (TPO) issued by the court within 72 hours, and a Permanent Protection Order (PPO) after a full hearing. All are free. BPOs can be obtained at any time, day or night.
What the Law Says
Your Legal Foundation
RA 9262 — Anti-VAWC Act 2004
Section 14
“The protection orders that may be issued under this Act are the Barangay Protection Order (BPO), Temporary Protection Order (TPO), and Permanent Protection Order (PPO).”
RA 9262 — Anti-VAWC Act 2004
Section 15
“A Barangay Protection Order shall be issued by the Punong Barangay within twenty-four hours from receipt of the application.”
RA 9262 — Anti-VAWC Act 2004
Section 1
“This Act recognises the need to protect the family and its members from violence and threats to their personal safety and security by making gender-based violence punishable as a public offence.”
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is covered by RA 9262?
RA 9262 protects women and their children from violence committed by their husband, former husband, boyfriend, ex-boyfriend, or any person with whom they have a dating or sexual relationship, or a person with whom they have a common child.
What types of violence are covered by RA 9262?
The law covers physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence (emotional abuse, harassment, stalking, intimidation), and economic violence (controlling finances, destroying property, preventing employment).
Can I get a protection order for online harassment?
Yes. RA 9262 covers psychological violence which includes harassment through electronic communications. The Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act (RA 9995) and the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313) also cover online harassment.
What if the barangay refuses to issue a BPO?
If a barangay official refuses to issue a BPO without valid grounds, report to the city or municipality mayor and the DILG. You can also go directly to the Family Court for a TPO, bypassing the barangay.
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