Home⇛Isabela State University Linker: Journal of Education, Social Sciences and Allied Health⇛vol. 2 no. 2 (2025)

Lived Experiences of Rape Victims in Criminal Justice Proceedings: Insights from a Regional Case Study

Eunice Nicolle R. Guyod | Hasleen B. Alarilla

Discipline: social policy

 

Abstract:

This study examined the lived experiences of rape victims during the Department of Justice (DOJ) proceedings as a regional case study in the Philippines, to identify challenges, assess the effectiveness of support mechanisms, and understand how these factors affected victims’ trust in the justice system. Following a qualitative-exploratory research approach, the researchers interviewed seven rape victims who had first-hand experiences with the DOJ proceedings from 2018 to 2024, through personal and online semi-structured interviews. The data gathered were analyzed thematically, revealing key themes related to the study’s objectives. The study found that rape victims who underwent the DOJ proceedings generally experienced respectful, supportive, and professional treatment from officials, which helped build their trust in the justice system. However, the victims encountered significant challenges such as lengthy case resolution due to delayed or rescheduled court hearings, emotional distress during testimonies, fear—especially during initial court appearances—and trauma caused by exposure to the accused in court. Support mechanisms, including shelters, counseling, legal assistance, financial aid, and family support, played a critical role in helping victims cope throughout the process. These mechanisms were largely effective in promoting healing and encouraging victims to continue pursuing justice, although gaps in trauma-informed practices and system efficiency remained. Thus, reforms in the justice system are crucial for improving the experiences of rape victims who undergo legal proceedings. This includes promoting efficient case resolution, identifying the causes of delays, recognizing effective practices already in place, and highlighting areas where trauma-informed approaches can be further strengthened. In particular, ensuring that victims’ psychological and emotional well-being remains a central concern throughout the legal process can help minimize the systemic and procedural challenges they experience.



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