Supreme Court adopts “victim-survivor” label in rape conviction ruling

The Supreme Court’s Third Division issued a detailed decision confirming the guilty verdict against a man who assaulted his 12-year-old stepdaughter in 2018, sentencing him to reclusion perpetua while striking the “without eligibility for parole” phrase. The opinion introduced the term “victim-survivor,” emphasizing the dual recognition of inflicted harm and the survivor’s enduring agency and dignity. The court ordered the offender to pay P450,000 covering civil indemnity, moral and exemplary damages.

It also directed the Department of Social Welfare and Development to refer the survivor to an appropriate rape-crisis center for psychological counseling, medical examinations, and family support programs. Associate Justice Japar Dimaampao authored the decision, which was promulgated in February 2026 and released publicly in September 2026.