House to probe nurse's rape, too

MANILA, Philippines - The House of Representatives is set to conduct an investigation into the rape of a volunteer nurse in South Upi in Maguindanao last Sept. 25.

Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. Lorenzo Tañada III filed House Resolution 643 directing the House committees on labor and employment, and women, to conduct a joint inquiry into the rape of the volunteer under the Nurses Assigned in Rural Areas (NARS) program.

He filed the resolution on Wednesday, the 22nd birthday of the victim, nicknamed “Florence” by the media.

The victim was left for dead at the back of a government hospital by her attackers, who many believe belong to prominent clans in the province.

Tañada said the probe will result in the recommendation of measures to protect the safety and welfare of volunteer nurses and health workers especially in rural areas.

Sen. Francis Escudero, who visited Florence on Tuesday, said the Senate would conduct an inquiry into the rape, too.