Cagayan, Isabela tops in sex abuse cases in Region 2

TUGUEGARAO, Philippines – Police have intensified their efforts to curb sexual abuse following reports of the rising number of rape cases in Cagayan Valley region (Region 2). In a report, Sr. Inspector Myrna Domingo of the Philippine National Police’s regional office disclosed that of the 98 recorded cases in the region between 2008 and the current month, with Isabela accounting for 35 followed by Cagayan with 33. Nueva Vizcaya posted 18 and Quirino had 10. Batanes which is noted for its claim to zero crime rate did not report any rape incident. Earlier, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Region 2 blamed low regard for morality as a precursor to sexual abuse, particularly against minors. “The PNP report is just a tip of the iceberg. We surmise that many more victims chose to remain silent out of fear and the stigma that goes with the experience," said one CHR personnel. The clergy have also called on the authorities to put a stop on the proliferation of smut materials being sold openly on the streets. The availability of pornographic materials, according to the Church, is one of the culprits for the rising cases of sexual abuse. Data show that more than 50 percent of molestations were committed by acquaintances like long time neighbors, classmates, and friends of the victims’ parents and some by in-laws or persons in authority including blood relatives or stepfathers. - Floro Taguinod, GMANews.TV