CHR backs bill on higher compensation for victims of violent crimes, rights violations 

THE AUTHOR of a bill that will increase the compensation for victims of rape, other violent crimes, and rights violations vowed to push for its speedy passage after the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) backed the measure.    

In a statement on Sunday, Quezon City Rep. Marvin C. Rillo said he will lobby to “expedite the bill’s approval by Congress.”  

The CHR, in a statement on Wednesday last week, expressed support to House Bill No. 5029, which aims to increase the financial compensation given to rape victims, those unjustly accused and imprisoned, arbitrarily or illegally detained, and other violent crimes.  

“Through the VCP (Victims Compensation Program), victims or their surviving next of kin can claim monetary reparation for grave human rights violations,” the commission said.  

CHR said that reparations acknowledge that violations were committed against victims and that redress measures are needed, especially if the violation was committed by state authorities.  

“Financial compensation likewise empowers victims to pursue legal action or allows them to receive reimbursement for any other losses they may have incurred,” CHR said.  

Under House Bill No. 5029, victims of unjust imprisonment or detention will be provided financial assistance of up to P5,000 per month. The compensation will be based on the number of months of imprisonment or detention and every fraction thereof shall be considered one month.  

In special cases, the victims could be given up to P50,000 or the amount needed to reimburse the claimant for expenses on medical treatment, loss of wage, loss of support, or other costs related to the injury.  

If enacted into law, the measure would be allocated P10 million yearly from the national budget, 3% from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., and another 3% from the proceeds, sales, and other disposition of military camps in Metro Manila by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.  

The bill will amend Republic Act. No. 7309, which created the Board of Claims of the Justice department. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz