Nancy expresses alarm and grave concern over reports of rape and other crimes against women, children in affected areas

Calls for government to safeguard women and children's rights

Senator Nancy Binay expressed alarm and grave concern over reports of rape and other crimes against women and children happening in areas battered by Super Typhoon Yolanda.

"I have received reports of rape and other crimes committed against women, girls and children in the areas affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda," the senator said. "This is very alarming and I express my grave concern over the apparent breakdown of moral values and civic order," she added.

The senator said that aside from ensuring that survivors of the disaster get basic necessities such as food and shelter, the national government should also safeguard the rights of women, girls and children.

Binay also called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to send in more personnel to maintain peace and security in the affected areas.

"We know from previous experience here in the country and around the world that in times of disasters, women, girls and children are among the vulnerable to abuse and exploitation." Binay said. "We need to ensure that the vulnerable are safeguarded and taken care of," she added.

"There is a need to augment forces in the ground, especially at night, as even the AFP and PNP staffs in the areas were also affected by the calamity," she said.