Tag Archives: Rape

[Statement] on Victim-blaming and Gender Stereotyping Amid the Investigations in the Christine Dacera Case -CHR

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#HumanRights #Women #LGBTQI+

Statement of Commissioner Karen S. Gomez-Dumpit, Focal Commissioner on Women and LGBTQI+ Issues, on Victim-blaming and Gender Stereotyping Amid the Investigations in the Christine Dacera Case

The Commission on Human Rights is deeply concerned and alarmed by the victim-blaming and gender stereotyping amid the investigations in the killing of Christine Dacera. These acts disrespect the victim and cause further anguish to her family. Similarly, the alleged perpetrators who are members of the LGBTQI+ community are negatively affected.

As the Gender Ombud, the Commission takes this occasion to reiterate that victim-blaming is unacceptable, especially in cases of gender-based violence. Instead of responding to the act of violence in this case, as well as addressing the root causes of the human rights violation, victim-blaming is a violation of a woman’s dignity and shifts the focus of the investigation on what the victim wore, the company she kept, and the places she went to. It trivializes the violence and demonizes the woman, as the blame cast on her creates the perception that “she had it coming,” making her unworthy of protection and remedies. It must be remembered that the crux of gender-based violence cases is the acts of violence committed by the perpetrator, and never the character of the woman. We must all strive to stop victim-blaming.

Undeniably, rape is a grave and serious human rights violation requiring an urgent and immediate response from the State. The UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) Committee requires no less than the exercise by State authorities of due diligence in responding to all cases of violence against women. In investigating and discussing circumstances surrounding an alleged case of rape, all forms of victim-blaming are unacceptable. We remind the public that victim-blaming and reliance on gender stereotypes impact access to justice. These ultimately deny women protection from violence.

Click the link below to read the complete statement:

Statement of Commissioner Karen S. Gomez-Dumpit, Focal Commissioner on Women and LGBTQI+ Issues, on Victim-blaming and Gender Stereotyping Amid the Investigations in the Christine Dacera Case

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[Tula] “Katarungan sa kapirasong laman” -ni Raymart King dela Cruz

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Pamatid uhaw, Pantawid sarap
Nakasilay nang hita, sinaniban na.
Inabangan nang mag-isa
Kumuha nang tyempo hanggang sa dinamba
Tinakpan ang bibig
Maging mga mata
Sinuntok sa tiyan, pinalo sa ulo
Nawalan nang malay
Ayos na pare.
Isang panghahalay..

Kawawang Nene
Hindi na nakauwi.
Matapos parausan
Puso ay tumigil
Sinaksak paulit ulit
Ng punyal sa dibdib
Upang hindi na makita ay sa sako isinilid

Hagulgol ng magulang
Sa sinapit ng anak
Awa, Galit, Hinagpis
Bunga ay luhang pumatak.
Labing apat na taon
Pinag-aral – Inaruga
Sa isang iglap lamang
Kinabukasan ay nawala

Hustisyang hiningi
Naging mailap,
Mga mata ay bulag sa salaping ipinasak
Tila ba mga nakapikit
May pasak sa bibig.
Kapag hindi nagsalita ay gigilitan ng leeg.

Hayok sa laman
Dakilang timang
Sa sandaling aliw
Kinawawang nilalang.
Hindi na binuhay
Ninakawan pa ng katarungan
Langit ang huhusga
Sa gawa mong kasalanan.

Ang may akda ay nagsusulat din ng mga awitin at isa rin musikero.

Support #KarapatDapat na Agenda campaign! Click the video to know more.

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[From the web] #AnimatED: The ‘kadiri’ President -RAPPLER.com

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#AnimatED: The ‘kadiri’ President

We empower him when we laugh at his sick jokes, we empower him through our silence

Imagine yourself as the maid violated by Rodrigo Dutere in 1959 or the early 1960s. You’re up before sunrise and work through the day and you’re dead tired at night. You are awakened by a hand inside your panty and you realize it’s one of the sons of the amo (master) touching you. Down there.

You can only seethe in silence. It does not even occur to you to raise hell, especially when the abuser is the son of the governor of Davao. You’re afraid of the boy with the wild temper, who happens to be the apple of the eye of his mother.

Fast forward to today and that boy is the President of the Philippines. The same one who was dismayed that he wasn’t first in raping a missionary; who catcalled a reporter during a presscon; who smooched an overseas Filipina worker; and who wanted female rebels shot in the vagina. He’s also a father who once dismissed his daughter Sara as a “drama queen,” when she revealed she was a victim of rape.

Read full article @www.rappler.com

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[In the news] Women’s group: With sexual assault story, Duterte says men can brutalize, rape women -GMAnews

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Women’s group: With sexual assault story, Duterte says men can brutalize, rape women

Women’s rights group EveryWoman on Tuesday slammed President Rodrigo Duterte for his anecdote involving the sexual abuse of a maid, saying that it defeats the purpose of celebrating Christmas.

In a statement, EveryWoman lambasted Duterte’s story, which he told during a speech in Kidapawan City on December 29—a time when most Filipinos are still celebrating the Christmas season.

“The baby in the manger came to stand logic on its head so that the last shall be first, and the first, last. But the man in Malacañang has consigned the last, the least and the lost to perdition,” the group said in a statement.

Read full article @www.gmanetwork.com

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[Statement] Human Rights Watch has repeatedly criticized sexual violence in India

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HRW reaction to Senator Sotto’s allegation on India rapes

Human Rights Watch has repeatedly criticized sexual violence in India, calling for an end to institutional barriers to justice, and has recommended reforming and training the police. We draw attention to human rights violations in over 90 countries including in the Philippines, where the spate of extrajudicial killings, apparently with the government’s blessing as it engages in a war on drugs, has however shocked people around the world, including in India

Meenakshi Ganguly
South Asia Director
Human Rights Watch

For more HRW reporting on sexual violence in India, visit:

Invisible Victims of Sexual Violence
Access to Justice for Women and Girls with Disabilities in India
https://www.hrw.org/report/2018/04/03/invisible-victims-sexual-violence/access-justice-women-and-girls-disabilities

Prejudice Flares After Rape, Murder of Muslim Child in India
Lawyers Try to Block Police from Filing Charges Against Hindu Suspects
https://www.hrw.org/news/2018/04/10/prejhttps://www.hrw.org/news/2018/04/10/prejudice-flares-after-rape-murder-muslim-child-indiaudice-flares-after-rape-murder-muslim-child-india

India: Rape Victims Face Barriers to Justice
Uneven Progress in 5 Years Since Delhi Gang Rape
https://www.hrw.org/news/2017/11/08/india-rape-victims-face-barriers-justice

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[People] Jailing the Child Abusers -by Fr. Shay Cullen

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Jailing the Child Abusers
by Fr. Shay Cullen
16 February 2018

When put on trial in Pasay City, Metro Manila, child sex abusers can expect a conviction and a sentence of harsh life in prison without parole from Judge Tingaraan Guiling of Pasay City if the evidence warrants it. This week on 12 February, a just decision based on the evidence was promulgated against Roque Galve for the aggravated sexual assault and rape of a minor, call her Rose. The judge is commended for doing justice for the abused child and many more like her.

Galve is the live-in partner of the mother of Rose and he took advantage of the child being mentally challenged. Her mother did not protect the child and sided with the abuser. He sexually assaulted Rose by inserting his fingers into the child. The psychologist testified that Rose was capable of telling exactly what had happened to her and she did. Her younger sister saw the abuse happening and testified also. Medical evidence supported the child’s testimony and a neighbor who heard the child cry out looked into the room and saw the abuse happen. He also testified.

Galve was found guilty beyond reasonable doubt of raping the child and was convicted under the Child Protection Law otherwise known as Republic Act 7610 and the Anti-Rape Law otherwise known as Republic Act 8353 and ordered to pay 75,000 pesos as civil indemnity, 75,000 pesos as moral damages and 50,000 pesos as exemplary damages. That’s what awaits the child rapists and their supporters and enablers when justice catches up with them. We will continue to see that it does.

Rose is safe and protected at the Preda children’s home forty minutes drive from here in the Preda main office in Olongapo City and is recovering and growing in self-confidence and is much stronger than ever before. She had her Emotional Expression Therapy and cried out all the emotional pain she’s suffering. She shouted at her abuser and unburdened herself of the stress and hurt that weighed her down. She is now happy, playing and learning every day. A success story for sure.

This is just one of thousands of cases that are pending in the courts and many perpetrators go unpunished because they hide away when there is an arrest warrant against them.

The record of the Philippine National Police in finding and arresting them is dismal. However, sometimes the suspects come back to the scene of their crime and with a tip off, Preda social workers can show the arrest warrant and bring the police to where they are and have them arrested. Then the trial can proceed.

We win only about four or five convictions a year although we have about 35 cases against child sexual abusers pending in the courts. The Philippine constitution allows for them to have due process of law but they can be tried in absencia if they have been arraigned and then fail to appear to answer the charges in court.

However, most of the accused suspects in child abuse cases flee before the arraignment. They must be caught and brought to court and held accountable. Seeking justice is an important part of healing for the victims and survivors of sexual abuse.

There are hundreds of thousands of survivors who have never been able to speak out about being raped and abused although these days the #MeToo movement is giving a platform for women of all ages to speak out about their terrible experience of being abused or sexually harassed. Children too must be encouraged to speak out without fear or intimidation.

In the Philippines, bringing a criminal charge is not very difficult or expensive. The public prosecutor will fight the case for the abused children and the good dedicated prosecutors will get convictions.

A German national, Konrad Weber, was put on trial in Gingoog City and with a committed prosecutor and a just judge that could not be bribed, Weber was found guilty of child abuse. He sexually abused several small boys. He received a sentence of life in prison. He is now on trial again for other acts of sexual abuse of other small boys. He allegedly abused them in Butuan City some years ago.

Preda Foundation has helped and supported the boys who are all from very poor families. They too told their stories to social workers and justice was done. Young people need encouragement and support to tell their stories of abuse. When everyone has the ability and courage to speak out and report abuse and support victims then this scourge of woman and child abuse will be greatly diminished.

It is known that one child in every four children suffer sexual abuse worldwide. This is a shocking statistics, a reality that we cannot forget or ignore. We must be aware that child sexual abuse is a common practice that cannot be ignored by apathy and indifference. Caring adults ought to be sensitive and aware that a disturbed child may have a story of abuse to tell and they should listen with sympathy and understanding.

Fighting for justice for children and with children is just part of our work besides helping rescue abused children from human traffickers and abusers and bringing them to justice. In the meantime the child is protected and safe in the Preda home for girls. Children everywhere need you to be their helper and defender.

Follow PREDA @
Website: http://www.preda.org
Facebook: @preda.for.child.rights
Email:predainfo@preda.org

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[Press Release] Commission on Human Rights Issues Resolution on ‘Rape-Joke’ Case -CHR

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Commission on Human Rights Issues Resolution on ‘Rape-Joke’ Case

chito duterte copy

CHR logoThe Commission on Human Rights (CHR) today released its resolution on Case No.
2016-078 involving the complaint filed by women leaders against Mayor Rodrigo Duterte
for Violation of the Magna Carta of Women for words & acts by him during the Presidential
campaign.

The CHR, in the dispositive part of the resolution, found the words & actions of
Mayor Duterte to be discriminatory of women that is enjoined by the Magna Carta of
Women. The CHR has asked the Civil Service Commission (CSC) and the Department of
Interior and Local Government (DILG) to consider taking appropriate measures for the
violation of the Magna Carta by Mayor Duterte.

Chairperson Chito Gascon said that, “The CHR has the sacred constitutional duty to
protect human rights and to call out persons when these rights are violated no matter what
their position in society may be. The Commission beheves that this mandate does not
exculpate Mayor Duterte from acts committed or words uttered in the course of the
electoral campaign when it involves breaches to fundamental rights, in this case, the
prohibition of gender-based discrimination and violence,”

The same resolution had also made further recommendations to other government
agencies to take positive steps to prevent similar incidents from further happening, to wit:

1. For the Congress to revisit the Magna Carta of Women and to include other
punitive sanctions for direct violations by individuals of the rights
enumerated therein; and to amend Republic Act No. 7877, otherwise known
as the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act, in order to require all employers to
conduct yearly gender sensitivity seminars for all its employees;
2. For the Commission on Elections to ordain and institute a code of conduct for
candidates for public office and political parties to adhere to gender-sensitive
language and conduct during campaigns, and to promote the rights of
women;
3. For the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education,
and other educational institutions, to incorporate gender mainstreaming and
gender sensitivity education in their curricula in order to foster a culture of
respect for the rights of women; and

4. For the Civil Service Commission to study the passage of a resolution
requiring all government officials to undergo yearly gender sensitivity
seminars pursuant to Philippine obligations under the Magna Carta of
Women and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of
Discrimination against Women, and to adopt measures to eliminate
prejudices and customary practices that are anchored on the idea of the
inferiority of either of the sexes or their stereotypical roles.

CHR expressed hope that because this complaint had been given due course and
that after serious consideration a resolution on the matter has been issued involving the
conduct of Mayor Duterte, that all stakeholders and in particular public officials would
at all times deport themselves in fully respecting the rights of women guaranteed by the
Magna Carta of Women.

CONTACT PERSON:
ATTY. KRISSI SHAFINNA TWYLA RUBIN
Gender Equality and Women’s Human Rights Center
09175874660 / 294-8640
Karapatang Pantao: Likas Sa Atin, Tungkulin Natin
Commonwealth Avenue, UP, Complex, Diliman, 1101, Quezon City, Philippines
Tel. Nos, 927-0172 • 928^2018

Republika ng Pilipinas
Komisyon ng Karapatang Pantao ng Pilipinas
(Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines)
OFFICIAL RELEASE
25 May 2016
Ref. Case No. 2016-078

[Blog] The Indian Rape Mentality: Barbarity and Inhumanity of the lowest order. By Jose Mario de Vega

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The Indian Rape Mentality: Barbarity and Inhumanity of the lowest order
By Jose Mario de Vega

I refer to Reuter’s “Ally of India’s Modi says rape “sometimes right, sometimes wrong””, June 5th concerning the gruesome and horrible case of two young cousins who were gang rape, strangled to death and then consequently hanged to a mango tree by those bastard animals.

Mario De Vega

I joined the international community in condemning to the highest possible extent this act of madness, barbarism and pure evil which can only be committed not merely by “young boys” but undeniably of demons of the most satanic order!

Those sexual predators are not humans, they are worst than the animals! It is not an exaggeration to state that they are the perfect physical manifestation of evil on this planet!

They don’t deserve to live in any civilize society, because they belong to the barbaric past by virtue of their animality and depravity.

If truly India is a civilized society then the government must do everything within its powers to bring those criminals to the bar of justice to answer for their despicable and heinous crimes.

The people of India must unite to show themselves and to the whole world that they are not tolerating discrimination and that they are detesting and condemning to the utmost, this utterly loathsome and abhorrent inhumanity.

According to report of the Human Rights Observers, “India: Teen sisters allegedly gang-raped, hanged to death in Uttar Pradesh; Cops suspected”, May 29th:

“Hundreds of angry villagers spent the rest of Wednesday in silent protest over alleged police inaction in the case. Indian TV channels showed video of the villagers sitting under the girls’ bodies as they swung in the wind, preventing authorities from taking them down from the tree until the suspects were arrested.”

These angry villagers are demanding justice and action from the authorities, but the bastard police instead of doing its job “took the side of the culprits”. That is not only a travesty of justice and mockery, but the heights of indescribable shame!

Again to quote from the report of the Human Rights Observers, “Indian teen girls gang-rape: families allege police shielding attackers”, May 31st:

“The victims’ families allege that local police were shielding the attackers as they refused to take action when the girls were first reported missing. It was only after angry villagers found the hanging corpses and took the bodies to a nearby highway and blocked it in protest, say the families, that police registered a case of rape and murder.”

It is clear from the facts of the case, that there is a conspiracy! Those policemen that shielded and protected those rapists and murderers must not only be suspended but should also be prosecuted for the crimes of rape and murder.

Why? It is a universally accepted principle of law that in a case involving conspiracy: the act of one is the act of all! Further, those bastard policemen must be prosecuted from negligence and acts prejudicial to the interest of the public. They have no right to be members of the police force for showing their bias, discrimination and incompetence. They are good for nothing! They are the one that should be hanged to death!

Adding insult to injury “a lawmaker from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling party has described rape as a social crime, saying “sometimes it’s right, sometimes it’s wrong”, in the latest controversial remarks by an Indian politician about rape.”

That dirty pronouncement of that bastard son-of-a-bitch is not only detestable, disgusting, but utterly both idiotic and discriminatory.

I condemn the act of the state government involved in this case in trying to bribe the fathers of the victim and I commend one of the fathers for refusing the said “blood money”.

If India will not do something about this latest abominable and undeniably repulsive rape case, then they are on their way to become the Rape Capital of the World!

A regional politician from Modi’s own party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), said on Thursday that the crime of rape can only be considered to have been committed if it is reported to police.

Comment:

I do not know whether that bastard idiot is drunk or under the influence of drugs, yet the facts of this case is clear: the parents of the victims had tried to report that their daughters are missing yet the bastard police turned them away.

So, following the super idiotic “definition” of that hyper moronic politician, every time a rape complaint is file but so long as the police will not record it, then there is no case and there is no crime?

Bloody hell! This creature is one of the most idiotic freaks that I have encountered in my entire conscious life!

Point two: It does not mean that because a case of rape was not reported, it means that a crime does not occur. Rape is rape and a crime is a crime!

Below are the heinous and odious words of the home minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mr. Babula Gaur:

“This is a social crime which depends on men and women. Sometimes it’s right, sometimes it’s wrong…

“Until there’s a complaint, nothing can happen…”

This is a shame!

That bastard freak as home minister is responsible for law and order in the said state. How will that idiot enforced the law if he himself is violating the law? How will that bastard execute peace and order, if he himself does not have an orderly and sound mind?

Commentaries:

Mr. so-called home minister, could you please tell us, when is rape right and when it is wrong!

What if I rape and fuck your daughter inside your house; is it right?

What if I rape and fuck again your daughter the following day, but this time in an open space, in an open air, in full view of the public; is it wrong?

Mr. so-called home minister, you also stated that: “Until there’s a complaint, nothing can happen.”

Again, it is clear from the facts of the case and from the various and numerous reports that “the father and uncle of one of the victims said they tried to report the crime to local police but had been turned away.”

Question:

How could the case of rape be recorded if some of your fucking bastard policemen are siding with those demonic rapists?

How could the case of rape be recorded if some of your policemen are not doing their job?

As of the moment, three bastard criminals have been arrested over the killings.

What the hell are we going to do with these animals?

Then, “two policemen were held on suspicion of trying to cover up the crime.”

Again, what the fuck are we going to do with these good for nothing so-called law enforcers?

It is incontestably sickening and disgusting to note that “a rape is reported in India every 21 minutes on average, law enforcement failures mean that such crimes – a symptom of pervasive sexual and caste oppression – are often not reported or properly investigated, human rights groups say. More sex crimes have come to light in recent days.”

Not to be outdone, another bastard so-called home minister from another state has issued another equally super preposterous and utterly ridiculous statement: “rapes happen accidentally”!

As reported by the AFP, “Indian minister says rapes happen ‘accidentally’”, June 8th:

“A minister from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling party has said rapes happen “accidentally” in the latest controversial remarks by a politician amid renewed anger over attacks against women.

“Ramsevak Paikra, the home minister of central Chhattisgarh state who is responsible for law and order, said late on Saturday that rapes did not happen on purpose.”

This is exactly what that bastard told the reporters as recorded by the media:

“Such incidents (rapes) do not happen deliberately. These kind of incidents happen accidentally…

Comment:

How the hell could a crime of rape which is a crime that is always associated with violence, force and viciousness be accidental?

How could the crime of rape which is so hideous, repulsive, revolting, disgusting and utterly distasteful happened not in an arbitrary manner and deliberate method?

It is a shame that Paikra, also of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which also rules at the national level could come out with such preposterous ideas, worst, that creature have the guts and galls to issue such a super stupid and incontestably idiotic pronouncement!

Shame to both Babula Gaur and Ramsevak Paikra!

A Call to Mr. Modi

Sir, if you and your government truly represent the will of the people, then the right thing to do is for you to castigate your men and ask them to apologize! Failure to do so on the part of these animals, you have no choice but to sack them from your party!

Show to the people that your party truly represents all the Indian people! Let the hammer fall and let it fall heavily!

On The Question of Pervasive Sexual Violence, Caste Oppression and Discrimination Against Minority

Besides the rampant sexual assaults, constant rapes and everyday molestations barbarically and habitually committed against women now happening in India, said society must also admit the brutal truth and that is: it is not true that their Constitution abolished the caste system.

Bapu called the dalits, the “untouchables” as harijans or children of god, but sad but true, the free and liberated India that he aspired and fought for against the colonizers has only ironically replaced the British in oppressing, abusing, dehumanizing and violating these people, which ironically are their fellow Indians.

I am wondering if Gandhi is alive today, what will he say to these lecherous creatures, these bastard policemen, good for nothing and discriminatory so-called home ministers?! Shame! Super Shame!

Now, look at this, while this case is still raging and making an outrage all over India, another woman was victimized!

According to the reports:

“A woman in a nearby district of Uttar Pradesh was gang-raped, forced to drink acid and strangled to death. Another was shot dead in northeast India while resisting attackers.”

Finally, I overwhelmingly concur with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon when has said that he was “especially appalled” by “the rape and murder of the two girls.”

As he said in a statement:

“We say no to the dismissive, destructive attitude of, ‘Boys will be boys’…”

The world must come together to make sure that India is protecting its woman and carrying out the laws and legislation that protect women’s rights and welfare!
Jose Mario Dolor De Vega

Philosophy and Social Science lecturer
General Education Department
Unibersidad de Manila

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[From the web] Manila mayor tortures rape suspect in full view of the public — Asian Human Rights Commission

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Asian Human Rights Commission

PHILIPPINES: Manila mayor tortures rape suspect in full view of the public — Asian Human Rights Commission.

Asian Human Rights Commission

The Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) is demanding an explanation as to why the police did nothing to prevent Manila Mayor, Alfredo Lim, from interrogating and torturing a rape suspect in full view of the public. In this report by the GMA News, about five policemen in uniform, including a senior police officer, were present in front of Mayor Lim as he questions, extracted a confession and forced the suspect to admit he had raped a woman and attempted to rape and rob another.

The transcript from the broadcast of Mayor Lim’s questioning clearly breaches the provisions of the Anti-Torture Act of 2009. Under the Anti-Torture Act of 2009, to inflict pain either physical or psychological for purposes of extracting a confession, information and forcing a person to admit to a crime is a criminal offence:

Photo: TV grab from GMA News.

1:04-2:15 (time code)

Mayor Lim: ‘diba ikaw ang nang holdap dito? (Isn’t it you who rob this woman?)

Suspect: Hindi kami (It is not us)

Mayor Lim: (asking the two complainants) Sino ba ang nang-holdap sa iyo? (Who robbed you?) O, ikaw daw eh! Magsalita ka! (You see, she said it was you!) (Mayor Lim, in yellow dress, was seen pressing the suspect’s shoulder hard).

Suspect: Hindi (No, it is not me).

Mayor Lim: Hindi? Ibig mong sabihin nagsisinungaling ito? (No? As you saying the complainants are lying?)

1:28-2:15 (timecode)

Mayor Lim: Totoo ‘yung sinasabi n’ya? Ha? (So, what she said is true, right?)

Suspect: Oo. (Yes) (this time it is obvious that the suspect was forced to admit)

Mayor Lim: So, totoo ito inaamin mo na pinagtatangkaan mo. Naholdap eh. Na dadalhin dun sa…para gahasain. (So, you are admitting that you attempted to rape this woman. She was robbed and was attempted to be raped).

The AHRC is shocked, but not surprised, by the inaction of the police and of how Mayor Lim could openly break the law in front of the law enforcement officers. The policemen, including a senior officer, by the uniform he was wearing, did nothing to prevent Mayor Lim from torturing the victim. In a situation where a suspect is questioned in the absence of his legal counsel by an influential politician in front of senior police officers and journalists, it is likely that any suspect would admit to anything.

Read full article @www.humanrights.asia

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[Blog] Japan’s Historical Idiocy and Moral Depravity by Jose Mario De Vega

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Japan’s Historical Idiocy and Moral Depravity

by Jose Mario De Vega

Mario De Vega

I refer to the utterly controversial and extremely immoral remarks reportedly made by Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto with regard to the comfort women.

I overwhelmingly concur with the statement of Attorney Harry L. Roque, Jr. that:

“The Philippine government should formally lodge a diplomatic protest with the Japanese government against the statement by Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto that the so-called “comfort women” of WWII served a “necessary” role by keeping troops in check.
According to this obviously insane Mayor, “soldiers living with the daily threat of death needed some way to let off steam which was provided by the comfort women system”. There are at least 200,000 women who were made to serve in these comfort stations in Korea, China and the Philippines.”

I condemn to the highest degree possible the utterly barbaric and extreme inhumanity of that Osaka Mayor.
I do not know whether that bastard Mayor is a maniac or a pervert or a psychopath, but one thing is for sure, that creature has a tremendous mental disorder; albeit a mental disorder of the of the worst kind.

Since it when that sexual assault and battery has been a “necessary role” for women? Is he himself a sexual predator?
I’m inclined to ask: is that the same thing he is doing to his wife? Does his mother were also violated sexually and brutally by his father? Will he allow his son-in-law to degrade his own daughter?
Indeed, the “obviously insane” Mayor’s bastardized claim that the comfort women system which was institutionalized by the invading Japanese military is a necessary part of maintaining the well-being of Japanese soldiers is not only preposterous but undeniably the heights of both arrogance and inhumanity.

For the record, said brutal practice was also sanctioned by the leadership of the Japanese Imperial Army.

As one campaigner directly retorted: “How can you justify rape, molestation and sexual abuse as a necessary act? Rape and sexual slavery are heinous crimes.” Undoubtedly, what Japan did during World War II is a crime against humanity!

SHAME ON THEM!!!

It is on this great sense that I also agree with the Department of Foreign Affair’s (DFA) reminder to the Japanese officials “to be careful in commenting about comfort women as the issue of wartime sexual abuse continues to rankle in the Philippines.”

If I may just add, not only here that this sensitive, utterly hurtful and incontestably painful issue continues to rankle but also to China and South Korea. To cite just one specific example of Japan’s barbarity and monstrosity: Who would ever forget the 1937 Rape of Nanking?

DFA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Raul Hernandez said that:

“The Philippine government has always urged Japanese authorities to be more circumspect in their public statements relating to this issue as they strike at the core of the feelings and sensitivities of those who experienced great suffering during World War 2…”

I also agree with the said spokesperson in reminding Japan to adhere to the “language and tone of apologies from Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yohei Kono in 1993 and Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi” in 2002.

Hence, base on these precedents, the statement of that sexist and barbaric Mayor is “a grave affront to the honor and dignity” of all those women in Asia that their military had abused physically and violated sexually.

Indeed, “the statement is crass, obscene, and is an attempt to justify a criminal act under international law. Specifically, rape and all forms of degrading and humiliating treatment committed in the context of an armed conflict -have always been illegal under oath customary international law and under the Geneva Conventions. Moreover, since it was publicly made by an elected agent of the Japanese state, the statement is an official pronouncement of the state Japan nonetheless, pursuant to the Articles of State responsibility. These articles codified in the form of a United Nation General Assembly resolutions; provides that all acts and /or statements by state organs may give rise to attribution to the state.”

I call upon Prime Minister Abe to castigate that stupid and criminal Mayor and denounce him in public.

I also call upon the Japanese people to publicly condemn that bastard Mayor and pressure their government (in order for their PM to act accordingly) to punish him!

If not, then the categorical denunciation of Professor Walden Bello against these two idiots and so as the Japanese people would be absolutely true.

Here’s what the good professor have stated:

Mayor Hashimoto of Osaka says it was necessary and fine for Japanese troops to have comfort women during the Second World War. This is what happens when you coddle fascists, do not internalize and institutionalize war guilt, and abort genuine democratic reform. Hashimoto and his fellow traveler Prime Minister Abe are a menace to the Asia Pacific region and should be denounced for what they are: people who believe Japan’s cause and atrocities during the Second World War were right and just. That the Japanese people elected these guys to power speaks volumes about where they are headed today.

Sad but true!

Below is an article that I’ve written with regard to the same subject, dated October 21st of last year:

“Japan’s Moral Responsibility with regard to their Extreme Heinous Historical crimes”

I refer to the international news which pertains to South Korea’s sharp demand to Japan to compensate their ‘comfort women’.

This concerns the unceasing plight and continuing fight of those sexually enslaved and sadistically abused women with regard to their persistent struggle for justice, acknowledgement and due compensation!

This piece is in solidarity to their worthy cause and legitimate
demand for apology!

I implore and beseech them to keep the flames of the crusade alive!

The struggle of these women does not simply entail financial or monetary compensation. That is just a tiny link in this whole series of chain of events.

To put this matter in its proper historical perspective, this continuing battle primordially centers on a demand for justice and due recognition.

Japan cannot evade historical responsibility neither can it deny complicity to all these horrible and supra horrendous dehumanization and blatant exploitation in such an organized, large-scale and systematic manner.

It is but just and moral for the Japanese government to accept the truth, admit the massive havoc that they wreaked and their incomparable barbarism, bear the responsibility, sincerely apologize to all those ‘comfort women’ and finally to pay for damages and/or allocate a corresponding compensation.

The Japanese people and its government cannot forever live in lies, denial, evasion and worst; historical falsification!

This is in-line with the precise analysis of the director of Asian studies at Temple University of Tokyo, Jeff Kingston:

“Historical grievances in Korea do not depend on who is in charge in Japan. They simmer on and on until every once in a while they boil over.

Tokyo is living in a dream world if it believes that these matters are resolved and not worth addressing.”

They must do the right thing and that is to sincerely apologize, openly confess and unequivocally admit all responsibility for their war time animality, barbarity, inhumanity and atrocity!

As lucidly reported by the Guardian, “Anger of wartime sex slaves haunts Japan and South Korea”, October 18th, by Justin McCurry:

Earlier this week, South Korea repeated its demand that Japan acknowledge its use of former sex slaves and compensate them.

“Japan’s legal responsibility has not been settled,” the country’s deputy chief envoy to the UN, Shin Dong-ik, told a UN committee.
“Those acts were a crime against humanity.”

Until such time that the Japanese government and so as its people is not doing the right thing, the just decision and the honorable thing to do — them they will never ever wash their historical crimes and they will forever be haunted and hounded by the dark ghosts of the bloody past!

Their future will never be glorious or triumphant!

To all ‘comfort women’ from Korea, China, the Philippines and other countries; I admonish you all to keep up the faith, continue the struggle and never ever give up for your heavenly cause to
exact justice and demand due recognition!

I applaud you all for your unwavering resolve!

Now, whether Japan admit its sins or not, issue the sincere and true apology or not is already beyond the domain of this historical case of exceptional importance.

For all intents and purposes, this quest has already assumed its central aim; because this struggle is a struggle for humanity and dignity. This is a noble crusade in reclaiming their honor.

May I remind the Japanese authorities that there is no Statute of Limitations for Crimes Against Humanity and that Command Responsibility is an accepted principle by international and local jurisprudence.

The Japanese government with a quiet acquiescence and partial conspiracy with its people may deny, even lie; but fear not, because history is neither blind nor myopic. There is no iota of doubt that the international community of nations, reason and history herself is on your side.

I am so certain about this and there is no doubt whatsoever in my mind.

We will win in the end, because the truth can never ever be defeated — even by a thousand lies…

In the immortal words of Emile Zola:

If you deny the truth and bury it underground; it will but grow and gather to itself such explosive power that the day it burst through, it will destroy everything on its way!

Japan and its people must do the right thing and that is admitting their grave sins and horrible crimes against Humanity, specifically the women of Asia, instead of justifying these war crimes, the
Japanese government publicly apologize for this systematic criminal act and pay reparations to their victims.”

Jose Mario Dolor De Vega

Philosophy lecturer
Polytechnic University of the Philippines
Far Eastern University

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[In the news] One billion women to rise on Feb. 14–Filipinos at the forefront, led by Monique Wilson -INQUIRER.net

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One billion women to rise on Feb. 14–Filipinos at the forefront, led by Monique Wilson
By Annelle S. Tayao, Philippine Daily Inquirer
December 29, 2012

inquirerAwash in purple light and its floor covered in rose petals, the stage of Music Museum in Greenhills was filled with women—kids, teens, mothers, artists, celebrities, even seniors who survived the war—all enthusiastically dancing to an upbeat tune.

At the very front were two of the group’s most passionate dancers: Renowned actress Monique Wilson and Tony award-winning playwright Eve Ensler, author of “The Vagina Monologues.”

Imagine that scene, but on a much larger scale: One billion women out on the streets in different parts of the world, all dancing to the same beat. The dance, however, isn’t just for show; it’s a protest, a movement, a collective cry—for people to put a stop to rape and all other forms of abuse against women.

The movement is called One Billion Rising, the brainchild of Ensler, an activist who has made it her life’s mission to fight violence against women. As part of her One Billion Rising World Tour, Ensler visited the country last Dec. 16-22 to help spread word about the campaign. Her other stops are Peru, Guatemala, Mexico, Los Angeles, India, Egypt, Paris, Belgium, London and the Congo.

Read full article @lifestyle.inquirer.net

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[Blog] In Defense on the Women’s Rights and Welfare by Jose Mario Dolor De Vega

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In Defense on the Women’s Rights and Welfare
by Jose Mario Dolor De Vega

I refer to the shocking and truly outrageous news pertaining to the controversial decision handed by Turkey’s judiciary in a high-profile rape case. According to the report of Dorian Jones from Istanbul, this particular case involves a Turkish “appeals court reducing the prison sentences of more than 20 men convicted of having sex with a 12-year old.” As of the moment, the same is pending at the European Court of Human Rights and has become the focal point of growing anger.

Indeed, the “case of the girl, legally known as NC, continues to cause outrage and anger” in the said country.
In fact, “last November, hundreds of people protested in the Istanbul, condemning Turkey’s Court of Appeal ruling that the then 12-year old child consented to being raped by more than a dozen men and sentenced most to only one or two years in jail”.

As a close student of the law and a practicing philosopher, this is one of the most stupid and utterly preposterous arguments, if one rational being could ever construe it as such in my entire conscious life.
How on earth could a 12-year old girl, a minor at that could ever gave a voluntary, fully informed and untainted consent?

It seems to me that that idiotic court is telling the whole world that a man or in this undeniably outrageous case, a group of sexual predators can secure consent from a child for her to be their sexual slave?!
This is the height of absurdity and inhumanity!

Worst, as fully documented by the Human Rights lawyer, Eren Keshkin:

“From the beginning this was terrible court case, she said, involving a 12-year-old girl who was an orphan. She was abducted and held for months, where she was rented out to be raped by more than a dozen men, which included local state officials and an officer in the army. The lawyer said all of these men are supposed to protect the people.

“Keskin said the case exposes the worst aspects and deficiencies of the Turkish justice system in how it treats female victims of sexual crimes, especially minors. She said she was appalled at how NC was treated through years of legal hearings.

“The judges humiliated her, demanding she explain in detail what was done to her in front of the defendants. Keskin said there was no support for her in the court, no protection, she was the accused, it’s was very hard for her”.
I concur with the sharp observation of this valiant advocate that the said “case highlights that Turkish law is very male orientated and feudal in its mentality”. Further, “she added that there have been many positive changes to the law, but in its application and implementation there have been only small steps”.

The victim is now a fully grown woman, her lawyer Keskin is still steadfastly supporting her. NC is also planning to attend a university.

Though her quest for justice has ended unfortunately in Turkey, all is not lost and the struggle continues. I applaud her and her advocate in elevating the said case to an international court!

Hence, as already noted she is now seeking redress in the European Court of Human Rights, where Keskin hopes and so would I; NC will finally get that elusive justice and attain that moral vindication!

This detestable case is also related in a sense with regard to the heart-breaking news of a 16-year old Moroccan girl who committed suicide after she was forced to marry the monster who had raped her.
Added insult to injury, this young lass decided to end her life, just days after the world celebrated the International Women’s Day! This is so ironic! What a shame! Such infamy and barbarity! Sad but true!

According to the reports:

The suicide last Saturday of Amina al-Filali, who drank a lethal amount of rat poison, sent shockwaves through Morocco and sparked widespread calls for reform of law that ostensibly defends family values”.

As a Humanist, I do not understand what do they meant by family values or what their concept of honor is. Yet, I know that it is against all values and virtue to rape and sexually assault a woman against her will and consent. My idea of honor is that by respecting all women, because all women carries with them the images of our mothers, sisters, aunties, grandmothers, wives, friends and daughters.

Hence, following the logic of this argument, the moment I dishonor any woman’s honor and violated their persons, I am also in a sense dishonoring and violating the images and honor of all the female members of my own family. I am not a man, but an animal; an animal of the worst kind!

As the mother of Amina asked:

“Can you imagine that a man who forced a girl to follow him with a knife, and who rapes her, could then want to marry her?”

Needless to state, I am firmly condemning and categorically denouncing Amina’s assailant and rapist to the highest possible degree! This monster has no right to exist in a civilized society or any decent community for that matter!
I am also renouncing and criticizing to the maximum extent the discriminatory mind-set and backward culture of both Turkey and Morocco with regard to their unjust, unfair, totally inhumane and completely barbaric treatment of women!
These two societies must change, if they fully want to join the international community of nations.

First, they must amend and/or repeal their archaic, barbaric and backward laws. Second, they must pass strict legislation that will fully protect women’s rights and welfare! Third, assuming there is already the existence of a good law; the relevant authorities concerned must implement and execute the law without bias or discrimination. Finally, said laws must be equally applicable to all! They must render justice without fear or favor! Needless to state, the basis of the law should be reason, not passion or culture or belief and traditions!

The continuing struggle for purposes of upholding and protecting the rights, general welfare and over-all well-being of all women is the interest and duty of all Humanity!

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[Petition/Solidarity] Petition for a comprehensive law to stop violence against women, including the repeal of Article 475 in Morocco -AVAAZ

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Dear friends,

16 year-old Amina Filali — raped, beaten and forced to wed her rapist — killed herself because Morocco’s penal code allows a rapist to marry his underage victim. Let’s end the outrage and push the government to make good on the promise to enact legislation that reforms the law and stops violence against women. Sign the petition and forward to everyone:

Days ago, 16 year-old Amina Filali, raped, beaten and forced to wed her rapist, killed herself — the only way she saw to escape the trap set for her by her rapist and the law. If we act now, we can stop this unspeakable tragedy from happening to anyone else.

Article 475 in Morocco’s penal code allows a rapist to avoid prosecution and a long prison sentence by marrying his victim if she is a minor. Since 2006, the government has promised to strike this down and pass legislation prohibiting violence against women, but it hasn’t happened.

Hundreds of Moroccan protestors are in the streets demanding real reform, turning up the heat on the Prime Minister and heads of other ministries, who write and sponsor bills and the international media has picked up the story. If we ramp up pressure, we can see real progress now. Sign the petition for a comprehensive law to stop violence against women, including the repeal of Article 475. When we reach 250,000 signatures, we’ll work with local women’s groups to deliver our call to decision-makers:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/forced_to_marry_her_rapist_b/?vl

When Amina was brutally raped, her family reported it to officials in their town of Larache. Instead of prosecuting the rapist, the court allowed him the option of marrying his victim– and Amina’s family agreed to the proposal.

Now, in response to global outrage, the government has issued a statement arguing that the relationship was consensual, but that story isn’t verified. Our Moroccan partners on the ground say that this is a typical government attempt to blame the victim and whitewash the issue — meanwhile the law is still on the books and now, more than ever, we need to reject Article 475. Women’s groups in Morocco have long fought this, and it’s time for the legislature to renounce this wretched tradition and pass real protections for women.

Outraged Moroccans are flooding social networking sites and the streets in protest. Hundreds of women staged a sit-ins in front of the Larache court and Parliament this week. Let’s join in the demand that laws should protect, not trample on women’s rights:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/forced_to_marry_her_rapist_b/?vl

Time and again, Avaaz members use our collective power to join with people around the globe to fight for a better world — today, let’s stand together for Amina Filali and the legacy of hope that her story must leave.

With that hope,

Dalia, Carol, Emma, Rewan, Ricken, Luis, Antonia and the rest of the Avaaz team

More information:

Morocco protest against rape-marriage law (BBC)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-17416426

Morocco mulls tougher line against rape-marriages (Al Jazeera)
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/africa/2012/03/20123171132404140.html

Protesters in Morocco demand reform of rape laws after teen girl’s suicide (CNN)
http://www.cnn.com/2012/03/17/world/africa/morocco-child-rape/index.html

Morocco: Amina’s parents contradict official account, insist their daughter was raped
http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/03/17/201337.html

Global Rights report on violence against women in Morocco
http://www.globalrights.org/site/DocServer/2011-10-14_Final_Shadow_Report_to_CAT.pdf?docID=12983

Facebook Group Page
https://www.facebook.com/groups/188082354639954/

[In the news] Violence against women: How to prevent date rape -GMA News

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Violence against women: How to prevent date rape
by VERONICA PULUMBARIT, GMA News
February 11, 2012

The Pinoy Abroad section of GMA News Online is running a series of articles on gender-based violence to help empower women and enlighten men.

Dating someone we like is meant to be a happy experience. However, some women end up being victims of “acquaintance rape” or sexual assault by the person the victim is dating.

Date rape is more common than most people think.

A United Nations (UN)-affiliated organization said the UN Crime Trends Survey defined rape as sexual intercourse without a valid consent.

The “International Statistics on Crime and Justice” of the European Institute for Crime Prevention and Control (HEUNI) said Southern Africa, Oceania and North America have the highest recorded rape rates, while Asia has the lowest.

Read full article @ www.gmanetwork.com

[In the news] Rape accomplice learns what’s reclusion perpetua the hard way -INQUIRER.net

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Rape accomplice learns what’s reclusion perpetua the hard way
By Miko Morelos, Philippine Daily Inquirer
February 7, 2012

MANILA, Philippines—“What does reclusion perpetua mean?” Erica Bianca Enanoria asked.

Her smirking jail guard, leafing through the documents of her case, put it simply for her: “That’s life imprisonment.”
Enanoria was thus led out of the courtroom sobbing, cupping her mouth with her cuffed hands, after a Makati City judge pronounced her guilty in connection with the rape of a student in Mindanao in February 2008.

The court also declared her ineligible for parole for helping in the abduction of a University of Southern Mindanao student till the victim was delivered to the alleged rapist, then a government official in Kabakan, North Cotabato.
The court said Enanoria was convicted as a “principal suspect by cooperation.”

Two other suspects—the accused rapist and Enanoria’s uncle, Andy Montawal, and another accessory, Jerome Montawal—remain at large with standing warrants for their arrest.

They were reportedly members of an influential clan in North Cotabato, with Andy Montawal heading the association of barangay (village) chairmen in Datu Montawal town at the time of the crime.

“Without [Enanoria’s] participation, the commission of the rape would not have been accomplished,” said Judge Cristina Javalera-Sulit of the Makati Regional Trial Court-Branch 140 in a decision promulgated Tuesday.

“The acts performed by [Enanoria] are necessary and indispensable to the rape of the complainant,” said Sulit, who also ordered Enanoria to pay the victim P250,000 in damages.

Read full article @ newsinfo.inquirer.net

[In the news] Rape: A horrific global phenomenon- GMA News

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Rape: A horrific global phenomenon.

VERONICA PULUMBARIT, GMA News

January 28, 2012 1

 This is the first in a monthly series of articles about Violence Against Women.

Rape, one of the worst human rights violations, happens everywhere.

The stories are horrific: Just this month in Australia, a mother of four raped her own 11-year-old daughter to teach her about sex.

The newspaper Sunshine Coast Daily said the mother, 37, in a “bizarre sex education,” used her mobile phone to create three films showing her raping her youngest daughter.

Also this month in India, a 19-year-old student was gang-raped inside a moving bus before she was killed, the news site Emirates 24/7 reported.

Many Filipinos, in the Philippines or abroad, have also been victims of rape.

read full article @ www.gmanetwork.com

[People] The Impunity of the Powerful by Fr. Shay Cullen

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The arrest of Dominique Strauss-Kahn the chief of the International Monetary Fund over an alleged sexual assault and attempted rape of a chamber maid in a New York hotel leaves the world gasping. When a person of such global stature and importance can be quickly identified, found, (on a plane about to escape) arrested, held without bail in a notorious prison and charged for a sex crime it shows the tough professionalism of the New York police and the independence of the judicial system. In general it could be said that in most cases the US system gives few privileges or special treatment to the rich and powerful. It is a strict, punitive and harsh justice system and even for minors in conflict with the law there is little compassion.

It is a cause for much reflection and comparison in the Philippines where sexual assault and child rape is such a common crime for which few are arrested and even fewer put on trial and convicted. When it comes to foreigners or the rich accused of sexual assault or child sexual abuse they are generally treated with deference. Money talks, fast and furious. Persons of influence and power, political or financial and even clerical can frequently act with impunity and buy their way out of trouble. Very rarely would an influential person in the Philippines be treated as robustly as Dominique Strauss-Kahn.

For example, the notorious case of MH a 47 year-old official of the World Health Organization, an Australian national, was arrested early in May 2009 in his car with a 12-year-old boy and a pimp. The pimp stated to police that the suspect committed sexual acts on the boy, the boy also confirmed it. MH and another foreigner who allegedly set it up, faced anti-trafficking and child abuse charges and life in prison but mysteriously there was no preliminary investigation, no charges brought and the suspects disappeared.

Take the case of a little 7 -year-old girl, Mykie Prado found raped and murdered on the 21st of February 2010 in Aklan. She died of multiple stab wounds. A rape charge was separately filed against Denis Eutaquio, (photo on http://www.preda.org) as a medical report confirmed that the child had been sexually abused. On the 19th of October 2010 an arrest warrant was issued against the Denis Eutaquio who is in hiding. Because of the closeness of the mother of the suspect to the mayor, allegedly, the investigation has been blocked.

Relationships are in many cases more important than justice, even for raped and murdered children. Following an international letter writing campaign to the Secretary of Justice, Leila De Lima, she immediately ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to take over the investigation and find the suspect.

The main obstacles blocking justice for abused children are mostly found in the office of the prosecutors. In a recent letter to the Secretary of Justice a children’s rights and protection organization asked the Secretary of Justice to unblock cases of child sexual abuse and incest that are pending resolution in the Olongapo City prosecutors office. In one case, the incestuous father admitted to raping his daughter. Until now, there is no prosecutors’ resolution.

The case of Mayor Jose Rodriguez, of San Marcelino indicates the extent of political power in slowing down the progress of Justice. He is accused of the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl but denies the charges and despite the seriousness of these charges seldom attends the court hearings. Power has its privileges.

The most unusual and exceptionally rare good news is that two Swedish men and three Filipinos have been convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in Cagayan De Oro City for operating a cyber-sex operation where women brought from different provinces preformed sex acts live on the internet for paying customers. This conviction is being appealed to the higher court most likely it will be reversed on a technicality.

The reform of the antiquated penal code will be a great improvement and the overhaul of the prosecution service will be the only want that victims of crime, rape and child abuse will have a chance to find justice. We might need a little bit of Law and Order; New York style to get justice done. P.O. Box 68, Olongapo city. Email: Preda @ info . com . ph

(Fr. Shay’s columns are published in The Manila Times,
in publications in Ireland, the UK, Hong Kong, and on-line.)
http://www.preda.org/main/archives/2011/r11051801.html

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