The Supreme Court has directed courts to use the term “victim-survivor” for people who have experienced sexual violence, emphasizing their dignity and resilience while recognizing the harm caused by such crimes.
The Supreme Court’s Third Division introduced the terminology in a decision affirming the conviction of a man who raped a 12-year-old child.
Associate Justice Japar B. Dimaampao wrote the decision in G.R. No. 271812, People of the Philippines v. XXX271812, dated Feb. 24, 2026.
The court explained that the change in terminology is intended to recognize not only the suffering caused by sexual violence but also the agency and continuing dignity of those who survive it.
“In lieu of the conventional victim when referring to individuals who have endured sexual violence, the term victim-survivor shall be adopted. This deliberate choice of words recognizes the harm and suffering inflicted while affirming the agency, resiliency, and continuing dignity of those who survive such violence,” the SC said.
In affirming the conviction, the court found that the prosecution established all the elements of rape and that the accused was positively identified as the perpetrator.
The child testified that the accused, her mother’s common-law spouse, sexually assaulted her while other people were asleep. She also said he threatened to kill her if she told anyone about the abuse.
She later disclosed to her uncle and aunt that the accused had been sexually abusing her since she was 9 years old. She explained that she had kept silent because of the threats against her.
Both the Regional Trial Court and the Court of Appeals previously found the accused guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
The SC upheld the conviction and imposed reclusion perpetua. It also ordered the accused to pay the victim-survivor P450,000 in civil indemnity and damages.
Beyond the criminal penalties, the SC ordered the Department of Social Welfare and Development to refer the child to an appropriate rape crisis center.
The court said the referral may provide access to psychological counseling, medical and health services, privacy and safety measures, and counseling and medical assistance for the child’s family when necessary.
Recovery programs may also be provided as part of the support extended to the victim-survivor.
The SC said the terminology change forms part of its approach to cases involving sexual violence, placing recognition of the harm suffered alongside the dignity and resilience of those who survive such abuse.
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