PNP probes interview of child rape victim

MANILA, Philippines — The Central Visayas police has ordered an investigation into an interview by a local radio station of a four-year-old rape victim in Dumanjug, Cebu.

Police said the probe is meant to serve the best interest of the child under Republic Act 7610 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Law.

It said the interview, which was conducted by a reporter of Brigada News FM Cebu on March 13, was facilitated by the mother of the girl and was not authorized by the local police.

The victim was asked to give details about the rape, which was allegedly committed by a relative.

Meanwhile, an interview of the victim by a police investigator on March 11 was reportedly recorded by the girl’s aunt, who then forwarded the video to another person who posted it on social media.

The Dumanjug police recommended the filing of appropriate complaints, if evidence warrants, against those who posted the video of the interview by police investigators and those who interviewed the girl on radio.

The Dumanjug police reminded the mother of the victim to protect the welfare of her daughter by refusing to entertain media interviews.

The alleged rape reportedly occurred on March 8.