The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) strongly condemns the alleged rape of an 18-year old student by two cops in Bacoor, Cavite. Rape is a heinous crime that inflicts physical, psychological, and emotional harm to victims. When alleged perpetrators are law enforcement officers, it consequently undermines the very institution sworn to protect and serve the community.

CHR, through CHR Region IV-A, has launched its independent motu proprio investigation on this case, and acknowledges the rape and administrative charges swiftly filed against Master Sergeant Rey Pogoso and Corporal Bryan Balajay.

As the country’s Gender Ombud, the Commission regards rape allegations and other reports of sexual assault with utmost gravity and sensitivity. If the charges against the two suspected cops are proven to be true, they must be held fully accountable for their actions in accordance with the rule of law.

CHR calls upon the government, as the primary duty bearer for the rights of all, to take appropriate measures to prevent similar incidents from happening again and hold firmly liable those who commit such atrocious crimes. While gender-related violence unfortunately remains a widespread issue in the country, victims still often suffer in silence. It is thus critical that we provide support and redress mechanisms to victims and survivors in that they feel empowered to pursue justice and speak out about their experiences.

For its part, CHR will continue to do its mandate to promote and educate the government on its domestic and international human rights obligations in addressing persisting issues on gender-related violence and violence against children—including the United Nation (UN) Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the UN Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women.

The Commission underscores that when women are free from violence and abuse, they are better able to exercise their rights and participation in the social, economic, and political development of their communities. ###