The Indang Municipal Police Station faced backlash online after posting “rape prevention tips” on its official Facebook page that many netizens immediately called alarming and outdated that propagate victim blaming
The tips which were framed as “safety reminders” placed the responsibility on potential victims instead of addressing perpetrators. For many, this reinforced long-standing victim-blaming narratives that continue to endanger women, children, and even men.
The comments section was quickly filled with criticism. A large number of users pointed out that real prevention starts with teaching people not to rape, not telling people how to behave or dress. Others emphasized that rape can happen to anyone—women, men, and minors—and that the burden of safety should fall on institutions meant to protect and serve the public.
Some also brought up past incidents where police officers were involved, and they questioned why a law enforcement agency would reinforce a harmful messaging and way of thinking instead of focusing on accountability, patrol visibility, and community protection.
A few comments even attempted to defend the post, arguing that reminders are necessary because “we don’t live in a perfect world.” However, the majority of the response remained critical, with many pointing out that crime prevention strategies should empower communities, not pressure survivors or potential victims.
The incident sparked a wider discussion about how authorities communicate sexual violence and whether the Philippines is making a progress in dismantling victim-blaming culture.
Many argued that public institutions must lead by example, promoting safety and responsibility without reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Posts like this serve as a reminder that effective prevention is systemic, not just individualistic, and that societal attitudes toward sexual violence must shift to protect everyone.
Real prevention starts with changing how we think, how institutions act, and how communities are supported—because safety is everyone’s right.
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