PH Supreme Court adopts 'victim-survivor' term for people who experienced sexual violence

The Supreme Court (SC) has officially adopted the term "victim-survivor" when referring to individuals who have experienced sexual violence, underscoring both the harm endured and the resilience shown by those who survive such crimes.

The shift in language was announced in a Decision penned by Associate Justice Japar B. Dimaampao, in which the SC’s Third Division affirmed the conviction of a man for raping a 12-year-old child.

“In lieu of the conventional victim when referring to individuals who have endured sexual violence, the term victim-survivor shall be adopted,” the High Court stated. “This deliberate choice of words recognizes the harm and suffering inflicted while affirming the agency, resiliency, and continuing dignity of those who survive such violence.”

The case involved the common-law spouse of the minor’s mother. According to the court details, the accused dragged the sleeping child outside her uncle's residence, raped her, and threatened her at knifepoint. The minor later disclosed to her aunt and uncle that the accused had been sexually abusing her since she was nine years old, a ordeal she had kept silent about out of fear for her life.

Both the Regional Trial Court and the Court of Appeals previously found the accused guilty beyond reasonable doubt. In affirming the lower courts' rulings, the Supreme Court noted that all elements of rape were present and that the accused was positively identified.

The perpetrator was sentenced to reclusion perpetua (up to 40 years in prison) and ordered to pay the victim-survivor ₱450,000 in civil indemnity and damages.

To ensure comprehensive support for the child's recovery, the High Tribunal also directed the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to refer her to an appropriate rape crisis center. The directive encompasses psychological counseling, medical services, privacy and safety protection, and family support programs. -Paraluman News