CITY OF SAN FERNANDO --- The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Central Luzon has urged the public to report cases of violence against women or VAW.
The commission said it has recorded nine cases of gender-based violence from January to June 2024.
Of these figure, four involved girls and eight were rape cases.
The CHR emphasized that "the number does not reflect the real scenario in Region III.
The agency said it believes that there are still many victims of rape and other forms of violence who do not report to authorities.
The CHR said there is a need for a collective effort to address the prevalence of gender-based violence, said Aloi Renz Santos of the agency's legal division.
“The fight against VAW is a social responsibility. We should not be apathetic. Instead, we must all be aware, participative, and vocal in supporting victims and holding perpetrators accountable. Let us be the voice of the weak. Let us support those who cannot fight for themselves,” he said.
Santos added that it is important that victims of VAW be empowered by creating a safe and supportive environment where they can report incidents without fear of judgment or retaliation.
“Let us stop the culture of victim blaming. We must have the mentality that there is rape because there are rapists. We have to empower the victims so they are not afraid to come forward to seek justice,” he said.
Santos said the CHR is committed to uphold and protect women’s rights through advocacy and information dissemination about their rights and the services available for the victims, such as legal aid, counseling, and temporary shelters.
The CHR also cited awareness campaigns on the implementation of Republic Act 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act, emphasizing stricter penalties for harassment occurring inside government premises or perpetrated by state workers.
The CHR said it strengthened partnerships with local government units, non-governmental organizations, and law enforcement agencies to improve the mechanisms for reporting and addressing VAW cases.
The program continues to evaluate and strengthen protection mechanisms for women facing violence and abuse through regular monitoring of VAW desks and frontline responders at the barangay and police station levels.
CHR said it offers assistance to victims, including financial support for legal proceedings and psycho-social services.
The agency also mentioned the collaboration with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines and legal aid clinics from state universities like the Don Honorio Ventura State University and Tarlac State University to ensure that victims receive proper legal representation and support.
The CHR appealed to the victims and their families to report cases through its regional offices or hotlines.