The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has condemned the reported rape-slay of a five-year-old girl in Barangay Wawa, Batangas City last May 14, as it vowed to pursue its own investigation.
"CHR strongly condemns all acts of violence against children and will work with local law enforcement officials in the conduct of its parallel investigation," CHR Executive Director Jacqueline Ann de Guia said.
Based on reports obtained by the CHR, De Guia said the bodily injuries sustained by the victim suggest that she was raped.
While the CHR welcomed the quick action by the Batangas City Police in apprehending the suspect in what it lambasted as a "heinous" crime, De Guia said that the government officials need to step up their efforts in protecting the rights of children, since they remain vulnerable to acts of violence and abuse.
"At the same time, protecting the rights of children must be the shared goal of every community to prevent the re-occurrence of such violent crimes," she said.
"We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim," she added.