Authorities have raised alarm over the continued rise of “rape at home” cases in the province, with most incidents involving family members, according to the Palawan Police Provincial Office (PalPPO).
The Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) recorded 19 rape cases from January 1 to March 22, in which suspects were relatives such as fathers, stepfathers, uncles, or family acquaintances, said PMaj Maribel Ustares.
“Kinukumbinsi natin ang bawat pamilya na magkaroon ng separate na room or ng partition man lang between sa babaeng anak at sa buong pamilya… marami pa rin sa ating mga kababayan na sama-sama lang silang natutulog,” Ustares said, citing lack of space at home as one of the contributing factors.
Police data showed that 144 cases were filed in 2025, 150 in 2024, 167 in 2023, and 131 in 2022. Victims ranged from as young as six years old to 18, while suspects were aged 15 and below up to over 60. Some of the offenders have already been arrested.
“Sa ilang case na nahawakan namin… may nangyayaring rape pero hindi makasigaw ‘yung bata, may nakatutok sa kaniya na hard object… isa sa magandang paraan para makaiwas sa ganun ay iseparate ang batang babae ng tulugan, lalo pa’t nagdadalaga na,” she added.
In response, the Provincial Council for the Protection of Children and partner agencies are intensifying interventions, with a focus on information and education campaigns.
“Ang pinakanaitutulong natin sa community is ‘yung information and dissemination campaign… kasi ‘yung mga rape cases sa province ay nangyayari sa mismong tahanan,” Ustares said.
Authorities said they continue to conduct dialogues in far-flung and Indigenous communities, educating residents on laws such as Republic Acts 9262, 7610, 8353, 11648, and 9208.
“Medyo mahirap din sa kanila paintindihin… they still believe na pwedeng ipakasal or pwede nang mag-asawa ang mga minors… pero may batas na po na bawal na ‘yung mga arranged marriage,” Ustares said.
Police urged families and communities to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting children, emphasizing that most cases occur within the home.
