CHR condemns rise in home rape cases

By: Jacob Lazaro – 35 seconds ago

Inquirer archive photo

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has denounced the recent increase in rape cases across the country, citing nine recent cases, most of which involved minors, mostly abused by relatives.

“Home, traditionally considered a sanctuary of love and security, has tragically become the scene of these heinous crimes. This reality compounds the trauma of victims as they are betrayed and violated by those they should trust most,” the CHR said in a statement.

READ: Man who had sex with his daughter arrested for rape

“The lifelong effects of such abuse go far beyond physical harm and often leave lasting emotional and psychological scars,” it continued.

One of the cases involved an unnamed man who was arrested in Manila after allegedly raping his 14-year-old daughter for two years. The victim also said that her uncle abused her first.

In Calamba, Laguna, a man allegedly raped his niece, aged between 10 and 17. The report noted that the suspect fled to Bicol, where he allegedly raped his partner’s three minor daughters.

Incestuous rape

In Argao, Cebu, a man was arrested after allegedly raping his 14-year-old daughter multiple times. The victim confided in her sister, who told her grandmother, who in turn reported it to the authorities.

In another case in Metro Manila, a 15-year-old student was raped by a suspected motorbike driver. According to the CHR report, the driver offered the victim a ride and even took her to a restaurant before abusing her.

The CHR also released the police report of a tricycle driver who was arrested after allegedly repeatedly raping his 12-year-old goddaughter. The victim reportedly did not inform her parents about the incident but told her friends.

“These heinous crimes must 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 every human being – the right to a life of dignity,” the CHR said.

First step towards justice

To ensure justice for the survivors, she called on the relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate each case and prosecute the suspects to bring them to full account.

“We also encourage victims and their families to speak out about these acts of abuse and violence. The Commission recognises that it takes tremendous courage to speak out, but this is the first step towards justice and accountability,” the CHR said.

She urged the public to report emergencies of violence against women and children and gender-based violence through the Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Center Facebook page or by calling 0919-7777377.

To report cases of sexual abuse, the CHR’s Citizen Assistance and Support Department can be reached at (02) 82948704, 0920-5061194 and 0936-0680982.