Rape, murder of minor housemaids condemned

THE City Council recently passed a resolution that condemns the brutal rape and killing of two teenage house helpers in Banyan-Pinyan Streets, Villa Angela Subdivision, Barangay Villamonte, Bacolod.

Councilor Em Ang, who authored the resolution, said the rape and murder of Joyce Boncaya and Keen Malunes last March 20 are an outrage on the dignity of and respect for women, which are supposed to be celebrated this National Women's Month.

She lamented that women are still being victimized by violence, despite laws promulgated to protect them, citing Republic Act (RA) 9710 and RA 9262.

RA 9710, or the The Magna Carta of Women is a comprehensive women's human rights law that seeks to eliminate discrimination against women by recognizing, protecting, fulfilling and promoting the rights of Filipino women, especially those in the marginalized sectors.

On the other hand, RA 9262, otherwise known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004, protects the girl child and women from all kinds of violence and discrimination.

Ang said Presidential Proclamation 224 and 227, and RA 6949 provide for the yearly observance of the month of March as National Women's Month to highlight the plight of women.

She said her resolution not only condemns such tragic and senseless acts, but also urges law enforcers to act with due diligence "to promptly investigate these killings, prosecute those responsible, and continue to work toward eliminating violence against women." (CNC)