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Guilty Verdict For Perpetrator in IJM Manila Case
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Friday, 19 September 2008

MANILA, THE PHILIPPINES – The perpetrator in a case prosecuted by IJM Manila has been found guilty of rape and sentenced to 20 to 40 years imprisonment.

On March 1, 2003, the perpetrator assaulted and raped his 16-year-old neighbor after forcibly entering the building where she was residing. Despite her fear and apprehension after the assault, the victim reported the crime to local police, who responded to the complaint.

This court victory so clearly demonstrates the relationship between incredible persistence on the part of a legal team and the healing and justice it brings to victims.
– Kaign Christy, Director of IJM Operations in Southeast Asia
The perpetrator was arrested and put on trial for the violent assault. However, the victim could not afford legal representation, putting the case in jeopardy. Her case was referred to IJM Manila’s attorneys through the Child Protection Unit of Philippine General hospital.

IJM lawyers appeared as private prosecutors in the case and an IJM social worker assured that the victim’s needs were met. IJM staff referred her to aftercare partners to ensure she had access to services she needed as she healed from the traumatic experience. She moved to a loving aftercare home where she could recover from the assault in security and safety.

Finally, this month, after more than five years of legal battle, the court rendered its decision, finding the accused guilty of the crime of rape. In addition to his prison sentence, he was ordered to pay the victim fines amounting to $2170 USD in moral damages and civil indemnity.

The former victim is now living independently, though she continues her relationship with her IJM social worker, who provides counseling and support as she navigates the healing process and living independently. IJM’s aftercare team also provided a small amount of capital assistance that enabled her to begin her own micro-enterprise.

After five years, justice has been served. “This court victory so clearly demonstrates the relationship between incredible persistence on the part of a legal team and the healing and justice it brings to victims,” explains Kaign Christy, director of IJM’s operations in Southeast Asia.

 
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