Rape a serious crime, Gabriela points out

Davao Mayor Rodrigo Duterte  INQUIRER/ MARIANNE BERMUDEZ

DAVAO CITY—The women’s group, Gabriela, cried foul over the recent reported rape joke of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, a presidential candidate.

“Rape is a serious crime not just against women but against humanity,” said Gabriela national vice chair Gert Libang.

A spliced video started circulating online showing Duterte sharing a story about a hostage-taking incident in a Davao City jail where a female Australian lay worker was raped and killed.

Duterte reportedly joked about someone being first in raping the Australian missionary worker.

“Rape, or any form of sexual abuse is not a joke, or something to be trivialized in a joke, especially by a public official and most especially by those aspiring for the highest post in the land,” Libang said.

The Gabriela official urged Duterte to immediately make a public apology for his statement.

“Mayor Rodrigo Duterte should immediately apologize for his statements making fun of rape,” Libang said.

Gabriela challenged Duterte to use the opportunity to discuss and raise issues about the women sector instead of making fun of it.

“We also challenge him to use his campaign to promote issues that will elevate the condition of women and their families,” Libang said.