The Commission on Human Rights Regional Office IX in Zamboanga City is now conducting an independent investigation on the alleged rape of a 9-year-old girl in an evacuation center to help bring the perpetrator to justice, according to the agency.

"We look forward to the cooperation and partnership with local law enforcement authorities in solving this case," CHR said in a statement, adding that its regional office will provide victims with necessary reparation, protection and financial assistance.

The CHR also called for greater protection of displaced women and children from gender-based violence which aggravates the suffering of disaster victims.

Based on the initial investigation of the incident by local police, the suspect, a 46-year-old man residing in Barangay Tumaga, allegedly assaulted the victim in the city evacuation center's lavatory and gave her P50 afterwards.