Financial abuse is a form of manipulation where one individual exerts control over another's access to financial resources, diminishing the victim's capacity to support themselves and forcing them to depend on the perpetrator financially. This abuse can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to, controlling the victim's access to money, stealing or withholding money, and manipulating or exploiting the victim's financial resources.
In the Philippines, financial abuse is increasingly recognized as a significant concern within the spectrum of domestic violence. The Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (Republic Act No. 9262) provides a legal framework for addressing various forms of abuse against women and their children, including economic abuse. Economic abuse is defined under this act as acts that make or attempt to make a woman financially dependent by maintaining control over her financial resources, to the point where she is forced to depend on the income of the perpetrator. This includes, but is not limited to, preventing her from engaging in any legitimate profession, occupation, business, or activity, except in cases wherein the other spouse/partner objects on valid, serious, and moral grounds as defined in Article 73 of the Family Code.
The law acknowledges the complexity and severity of financial abuse as part of domestic violence and provides mechanisms for protection and redress for victims. These include issuing Protection Orders, which can require the abuser to provide financial support to the victim and their children, and prohibiting the abuser from controlling or threatening to control the victim's financial resources and personal property.
Victims of financial abuse can seek legal remedies through the Philippine judicial system. They can file for a Protection Order at the Family Court or Barangay, where they can also seek assistance in filing a criminal case against the abuser. The legal process aims to not only stop the abuse but also to provide the victim with financial independence and recovery. This includes orders for spousal support, child support, and division of property, especially in separation and annulment cases where financial abuse has been a significant factor.
The Philippine government and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) offer support services, including legal assistance, counseling, and shelter, for victims of financial abuse. Awareness campaigns and educational programs are also conducted to inform the public about financial abuse and the legal protections available to victims.
Financial abuse is a serious issue that undermines the dignity and autonomy of individuals. The legal system in the Philippines offers mechanisms to protect victims, but it also requires societal awareness and support to effectively combat this form of abuse. Ensuring that victims are aware of their rights and the resources available to them is crucial in addressing and preventing financial abuse.