Law Summary
Establishment of Rape Crisis Centers
- Led by DSWD in coordination with DOH, DILG, DOJ, and a lead NGO.
- Each center located in a government hospital, health clinic, or suitable venue.
- Functions include:
- Psychological counseling and medical services including medico-legal exams.
- Free legal assistance when necessary.
- Assistance in police investigation and litigation to expedite justice.
- Ensuring victim privacy and safety.
- Counseling and medical services for victims' families.
- Training programs for law enforcement and community officials on handling cases.
- Implementation of recovery programs for victims.
Duties of Police Officers
- Prompt referral of cases to prosecutors if accused is detained.
- Facilitation of counseling and medical care for victims.
- Immediate reporting of actions taken.
- Ensuring privacy by restricting room access during investigation and examination to authorized persons only.
- Establishment of women’s desks in police precincts for female investigators.
- Assignment of female prosecutors for handling women rape victim cases.
Protective Measures in Proceedings
- Respect for privacy of both victims and accused throughout investigation and trial.
- Court and responsible officials may order closed-door sessions to ensure fairness and privacy.
- Prohibition on public disclosure of identities and sensitive information.
- Proceedings may be conducted in a language or dialect familiar to the parties.
Rape Shield Rule
- Exclusion of evidence related to complainant's past sexual conduct or reputation unless material and relevant.
- Limits the admissibility to protect victim's dignity and privacy.
Funding and Appropriations
- 120 million pesos allocated for the first year from the Organizational Adjustment Fund:
- 60 million pesos for DSWD.
- 20 million pesos each for DOH, DILG, and DOJ.
- Future funding to be included in agencies' regular budgets.
Implementation and Enforcement
- Agencies required to establish implementing rules and regulations within 90 days.
Legal Provisions
- Separability clause ensures remaining provisions remain in force if any part is invalidated.
- Repealing clause annuls conflicting laws, orders, and regulations.
- Effectivity starts 15 days after publication in two newspapers of general circulation.