Police, social workers map out plan vs. rape
INCESTUOUS RAPES ON THE RISE
LINGAYEN— The women and children’s protection desk (WCPD) of the police in Region 1, alongside social workers, recently held a conference to draw long-terms plans that will help deter rape cases.
P/Chief Inspector Genevieve Poblete of the WCPD-Pangasinan said one of the strategies is to intensify the information drive at the grassroots level through meetings at the barangay and even home visits.
Poblete admitted that the number of rape cases in the province for the first quarter of the year was higher at 26 from 20 in the same period last year. A total of 110 rape cases were reported in 2013.
“This is alarming especially with the increase of incestuous rape cases. It is really sad since elder relatives that ought to protect the young ones become the attackers,” Poblete said.
At the same time, Poblete said the increase in the number of reported cases could also be an indication of increased awareness among victims.
“We could say that the victims and their family are now aware of their rights and report the persons who have violated that right,” she said.
Most of the reported victims are minors from Dagupan City, Urdaneta City and the towns of Bugallon, Bayambang and Calasiao.
PORNOGRAPHY AND ALCOHOL
Poblete pointed to the rampant and easy access to pornography over the internet, alcohol and illegal drug abuse as the main trigger points for rape.
The police officer advised young girls to avoid going out and drinking with men as this can lead to rape or sexual harassment.
She advises the presence of parents or other relatives as chaperones in such outings and at the same time, Poblete reminded parents to protect their children and avoid entrusting them to other people, even relatives.
The WCPD chief supports the return of death penalty for rapists of minors.
“We know that this is ‘suntok sa buwan’ but we are hoping that in any way if it is necessary to stop them from harming the women and children,” Poblete said.—Dada Austria
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
