The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) through its regional office in IV-A will be conducting a motu propio investigation into the alleged rape-slay of a 5-year-old girl whose body was found on Saturday, 14 May 2022, in Barangay Wawa, Batangas City.

Initial reports based on bodily injuries sustained by the victim suggest that the victim was raped.

We welcome the quick action of the Batangas City Police in apprehending the suspect in this heinous crime. CHR strongly condemns all acts of violence against children and will work with local law enforcement officials in the conduct of its parallel investigation.

CHR reminds the government and local government officials of the need to strengthen the protection of the rights of children who remain most vulnerable to acts of violence and abuse. At the same time, protecting the rights of children must be the shared goal of every community to prevent the re-occurrence of such violent crimes.

We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim.