Deplorable, Palace says of rape-slay try on girl inside Bilibid

"Deplorable." This was how Malacañang on Saturday condemned the attempted rape-slay of an eight-year-old daughter of a convict inside the New Bilibid Prison on New Year's Day.

But deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said they are confident Justice Secretary Leila de Lima is taking the appropriate steps to address the situation.

"We did get that particular report and that incident involving the eight-year old is nothing short of deplorable. We are confident that the Justice Secretary is already taking measures to stop any and all possible criminal acts against the penitentiary," she said on government-run dzRB radio.

On Friday, de Lima cited initial findings indicating the eight-year-old victim, was found unconscious and without her underwear in the maximum security compound. A rope was around her neck, indicating an attempt to kill her.

But de Lima also said the supposed sexual assault attempt was not consummated.



Valte said those who commit crimes inside the penitentiary may face separate charges for crimes discovered while they are inside there.

"At tandaan po natin na kahit nakakulong po sa loob ng Bilibid at mayroon pa pong krimen na nagawa, hindi ho ibig sabihin ay ligtas na kayo, kasi you will also have to undergo trial for any crime that is discovered na ginawa po ng isang inmate at mas mabigat po ang parusa sa mga ganoong kaso," she said.

On the other hand, she said the Bilibid's officials are now "under close watch and supervision" by de Lima. — Joel Locsin/LBG, GMA News