GMA, son file magna carta for crime victims

MANILA, Philippines - Former president and now Pampanga Second District Rep. Gloria Arroyo wants stiffer penalties for government officials who will fail to protect the rights of crime victims.

Arroyo and her son, Camarines Sur Second District Rep. Dato Arroyo, filed House Bill 3036 or the proposed "Magna Carta for Crime Victims Act of 2013" to systemize certain rights of crime victims and prescribe the duties and responsibilities of  government officials.

"If the bill of rights guarantees the rights of persons accused of alleged crimes, much more should the victims be protected and assured of their rights," the Arroyos said.

The bill mandates the officers and employees of the Department of Justice and other government agencies engaged in the detention, investigation, or prosecution to exert their best efforts to ensure the rights of crime victims.

The Arroyos said government officials who fail, either willfully or negligently, and regardless of good faith, to perform their duties shall be penalized with one year imprisonment, without prejudice to any administrative case that may be filed against them.

Officials may also face a civil case if a crime victim suffers any damage as a result of their failure to perform their duties.

"Crime victims should be treated with respect, compassion, and dignity throughout the criminal justice process," the Arroyos said.

Under the proposed measure, officials should also perform the following tasks:

• inform crime victims of the place where they may receive emergency medical and social services.
• notify the crime victims of any restitution or other relief that they are entitled under the law.
• advise victims of private and public programs available for the counseling, treatment and other forms of support and assist them in contacting the persons responsible for providing the said services and relief