TABUK CITY, Kalinga (PIA) — The Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 25 reminded the public that rape cases cannot be settled through customary laws or traditional practices and must be prosecuted under Philippine law.
During a consultative meeting of duty-bearers on August 7, 2025 at Tabuk City Hall, RTC Branch 25 Clerk of Court Atty. May Frances Calsiyao said this policy ensures perpetrators of serious crimes are held accountable.
She explained that while plea bargaining can settle civil liabilities, private agreements outside the court cannot be used to dismiss rape cases.
“Rape cases cannot be dismissed simply because the parties have reached a settlement through traditional or alternative dispute resolution,” Calsiyao stated.
From January 2024 to July 2025, the court handled 79 rape cases resulting in 44 guilty verdicts and a 57 percent conviction rate, with only four cases acquitted.
Calsiyao said the high conviction rate shows the court’s strong commitment to delivering justice in sexual abuse cases.
Child Protective Division Chief Conchita Busaiya of the City Social Welfare and Development Office welcomed the report and called the conviction rate a positive step in the city’s fight against sexual abuse.
Busaiya urged the public to refer rape victims especially minors, to the CSWDO for social and psychological support. Rape is a heinous crime and convicted offenders may face reclusion perpetua or at least 30 years imprisonment. **RGA-PIA CAR, Kalinga
