Not all have family to be proud of
Riza’s situation is a tragic example of abuse at the hands of the person who should have been her protector.
Daily TribuneRiza’s situation is a tragic example of abuse at the hands of the person who should have been her protector.
As the nation prepares for today's National Family Day, dedicated to strengthening familial bonds through shared meals and quality time, it is disheartening to acknowledge that not all Filipinos can partake in this celebration.
This is the unfortunate case for Riza, a 14-year-old confined to a hospital bed after giving birth to her first child, the offspring of her own father.
Riza's situation is a tragic example of abuse by the person who should have been her protector.
According to Riza's aunt, who bravely spoke to DAILY TRIBUNE, Riza was threatened with dire consequences if she disclosed the despicable acts she was subjected to. As a result, she lived in isolation within her own home for months, enduring repeated acts of rape.
The aunt, who wished to remain anonymous, only became aware of Riza's horrifying ordeal when she was brought to the hospital last Wednesday, on the brink of giving birth.
Poster child of abuse
Riza symbolizes those who suffer silently and endure unimaginable pain as victims of incest.
National Family Day should also be a reminder of the importance of vigilance and support, so that no child or family member falls victim to such a heinous act.
"What we knew was that she was sick, which was why relatives did not see her for nine months. Even her teachers wondered why she did not enroll. The suspect, 'Robert,' Riza's father, was the one who brought her to the hospital in Valenzuela and left her there," the aunt said.
"I asked her what we should do with the baby; she did not answer but only cried. Later, she told me, my child is not at fault. I hope that I will be able to support the baby."
When I heard that, I was so infuriated that I wanted to skin her monster of a father alive," the aunt said.
The father is now in police custody, awaiting the charge of rape to be filed by the Valenzuela prosecutor's office.
Riza's child is in critical condition due to some health complications.
Children of incest are in danger of being born prematurely, underweight and undersized. Babies from incestuous relations are also likely to have physical deformities.
Unfortunate fate
While celebrating National Family Day, Riza and her two siblings could have been at the same table with their father, reminiscing about their deceased mother.
But, unfortunately, they did not have the same fate as most of us, as they are among the low-income families that sometimes suffer misfortunes and from circumstances they did not choose.
Last February, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the number of incestuous rape cases in the country was very alarming, as he asked the PNP to devise a means to curb the increasing cases.
He said some youngsters under the Witness Protection Program are victims of incestuous rape or sexual abuse involving relatives.
Former Philippine National Police chief, Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., said from July 2022 and January 2023, rape was among the three most prevalent crimes.
However, from January to June this year, the PNP said rape cases declined by 18.19 percent or 5,025 cases, compared to the 4,111 incidents in the same period last year.
Draw from support system
Law firm Respicio & Co, on their website, said one of the interventions that a rape victim should do is to engage a support system.
"Reach out to trusted family members, friends, or support organizations that can provide emotional and psychological support during this difficult time. Having a support system helps cope with the trauma and make informed decisions about the next steps," the law firm stated.
They advised victims to seek counseling and therapy to address the emotional and psychological trauma resulting from the rape.
Seeking assistance from organizations that specialize in supporting survivors of sexual assault is also recommended.
"Being a victim of rape is a traumatic experience, but it is essential to know that you are not alone. The Philippine legal system offers protection and support to victims of sexual assault. By following this guide, victims can take the necessary steps to seek justice, receive support, and rebuild their lives after such a devastating incident. Remember that seeking justice is not just your right; it is also a step towards healing and preventing further harm to others," Respicio and Co. said.
