MIRIAM WANTS "MELISSA" CASE INVESTIGATED

Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago today filed a resolution directing the Senate committee on foreign relations, which she chairs, to investigate the plight of "Melissa," an overseas Filipina domestic helper in Saudi Arabia who was allegedly raped by her employer's son.

According to media reports, a video was reportedly taken of the rape incident.

"The number of rapes committed against our overseas Filipina workers is deplorable," Santiago said. "The perpetration of sexual abuse, not only against Melissa but also against all other female OFWs should not be allowed to continue."

"Measures must be taken to ensure the safety and protect the honor of present and future Filipina workers," she said.

The senator noted that vulnerable overseas domestic helpers like Melissa receive inadequate protection from our consulates abroad when they are raped. The senator wants the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Labor and Employment to jointly establish mechanisms in Philippine consulates abroad for receiving rape complaints, assisting Filipina victims, and ensuring that sexual abuse is not tolerated in the foreign countries where they serve.

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