DSWD supports raps against volunteers

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) yesterday supported the filing of charges against two volunteers of the Reception and Action Center (RAC) of the Manila Department of Social Welfare for allegedly raping a 16-year-old girl last year.

In a statement, DSWD Undersecretary Luwalhati Pablo also clarified that RAC is under the supervision of the office of the mayor of Manila, and not under the DSWD, which was earlier reported.

Pablo said during a monitoring visit last June 2, DSWD-National Capital Region technical staff found that the Manila Social Welfare Office was remiss on some standards regarding the operation and management of RAC.

The victim was reportedly raped at the RAC infirmary on Arroceros Street in Ermita on Aug. 2, 2007.

She said the DSWD staff recommended, among other things, the following: upgrading of the Manual of Operations, conduct of “talakayan” sessions with the clients, preparation of Work and Financial Plan (WFP) and improve on various aspects of administrative, case management and program concerns of the center.

“The DSWD will continue to provide technical assistance and monitoring to Manila’s Reception Action Center which in keeping with DSWD’s mission to provide social protection and promote the rights and welfare of the disadvantaged individuals,” Pablo said. Paul Benson, 27 and Raymond Villajuan, 39, were charged with rape under Republic Act 7610, the law against child abuse.

Assistant City Prosecutor Carmen de Jesus-Ogad said the victim’s mental condition is that of a child, and she is unable to protect herself from being abused.

Ogad recommended no bail for the suspects. – Helen Flores