Senator Leila de Lima has sought a Senate probe to look into the alleged “palit-puri” (sex-for-freedom) scheme in the Philippine National Police (PNP), where police officers allegedly rape suspects or their relatives in exchange for freedom from charges.
De Lima has filed Senate Resolution No. 930, urging the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality to investigate on the alleged sexual advances committed by the police.
“The alarming reports of women and children having suffered in the hands of state actors must be resolved speedily, for demanding sexual favors in exchange for one’s freedom is a gross manifestation of abuse of power that must not be tolerated by the government,” she said in a statement on Monday.
In filing the resolution, De Lima noted the recent alleged sexual abuse against a 15-year-old girl by a rookie policeman. The minor was allegedly raped in exchange for the freedom of her parents who were facing drug charges.
Nearly two weeks after the said police was arrested, two other Quezon City policemen were captured after a woman accused them of rape in exchange for her release from jail.
READ: This time, 2 QC cops held on ‘palit-puri’ raps
De Lima said amid these reports, the government should increase its attention on the abuses allegedly committed by the police against women.
“In a seeming culture of impunity that breeds and emboldens criminals and misfits, the authorities must remain vigilant in safeguarding the vulnerable, particularly the women and children, from those who trample upon their rights,” De Lima said. /je
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