(Trigger warning: violence, sexual assault, child rape, killings)
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) vehemently denounces the series of reported rape cases against children across the country. These appalling incidents are a grave violation of human rights and highlight the urgent need for robust actions to protect our children and ensure justice for the victims.
The following recent cases illustrate the alarming scope and severity of this issue:
-A 15-year-old student in Metro Manila was raped by a motorcycle rider suspect who offered her a ride and even took her to a restaurant before committing the heinous act.
-A man was arrested in Manila after allegedly raping his 14-year-old daughter for two years. The victim also revealed that her uncle was the first to rape her in 2022.
-A man allegedly raped his niece in Calamba, Laguna, when she was 10 years old and until she turned 17. The suspect escaped to Bicol, where he allegedly raped his partner’s three minor daughters.
-In Argao, Cebu, a man was arrested after allegedly raping his 14-year-old daughter on multiple occasions. The child told her sibling about the incident, who informed their grandmother and reported it to the authorities.
-A 19-year-old man was arrested in Marikina City after allegedly raping his seven-year-old sibling. The victim was also allegedly raped by her cousin and uncle.
-A man was arrested in Quezon for allegedly raping his minor stepdaughter since 2015. Police said that the victim is pregnant and is expected to have the baby in June. Investigation showed that the victim’s youngest sister is also being raped by the suspect.
-A tricycle driver was arrested after allegedly repeatedly raping her 12-year-old goddaughter (inaanak). According to reports, the victim did not inform her parents about the incident, but instead confided in her friends.
-A young girl who was allegedly abducted was found shirtless and bloodied in a grassy area in General Santos City. The victim showed signs of having been raped.
-The decaying corpse of an 11-year-old girl, who had been missing for several days, was found in a dense area in Manukan, Zamboanga del Norte. Authorities believe the victim may have been raped before being killed. The 20-year-old suspect, who is a relative of the victim, surrendered to the authorities. According to the police, the suspect admitted to killing the victim but denied raping her. The suspect also mentioned that he had an accomplice in the crime, who is set to be arrested by the authorities once the court issues a warrant of arrest.
These nefarious crimes should be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Such acts not only inflict immense pain and suffering on the victims and their families but also undermine the most fundamental right of everyone–the right to a dignified life.
It is also deeply troubling that a significant portion of these reported cases involve perpetrators who are family members of the victims. The home, traditionally seen as a sanctuary of love and safety, has tragically become the setting for these heinous crimes. This reality compounds the trauma experienced by the victims, as they are betrayed and violated by those whom they should trust the most. The lifelong repercussions of such abuse extend far beyond the physical harm, often causing lasting emotional and psychological scars.
As the country’s Children and Gender Ombud, the Commission regards rape allegations and other reports of sexual assault with utmost gravity and sensitivity. We strongly urge the appropriate authorities to hold the perpetrators fully accountable for their actions in accordance with the rule of law. We will continue to sound the alarm denouncing these atrocities, ensuring that justice is served swiftly and effectively. In line with this, we take note of the prompt action of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other relevant authorities in apprehending the suspects and taking cognisance of the situation.
We also encourage the victims and their families to speak out about these acts of abuse and violence. The Commission acknowledges that it takes immense courage to come forward, but doing so is the first step towards seeking justice and accountability. CHR stands ready to offer assistance and support. No one should suffer in silence and together, we can break the cycle of abuse and violence against women and children.
The Commission emphasises the importance of continuing to advocate for strengthened programs and campaigns that foster a culture of respect and care for women and children, as well as the elimination of discrimination and misogyny. It is also critical that communities are empowered to help create safe spaces and participate in measures to prevent sexual violence against these vulnerable groups from recurring.
