Q:My 22-year-old boyfriend (who’s not married but has a son) forced me one day to go with him to a hotel and to have sex with him against my will. (“Nanlaban ako”)I Fought to no avail. Should I file a case against my boyfriend?

A:Are you emotionally ready to relieve the trauma in court? Are there witnesses to prove your boyfriend forced you into having sex with him? Are you financially ready for a court battle? Do you have supportive family and friends?

Consider these questions before making a decision. Court hearings are never easy – especially the detailed, intimate cross-examination. That’s why many rape cases go unreported.

However, some cases similar to yours prosper in court. The court could rule that “a rape victim would not publicly disclose that she had been raped and undergo the trouble and humiliation of a trial if her motive was not to bring to justice the persons who abused her “(226 Supreme Court Report Annotated, 156). Hence the popular line, “Kapag may katwiran, ipaglaban mo.” You have legal rights. Bu filing or not filing a court case against your boyfriend is yours to decide. “If you decide to report your rape, preserving evidence is crucial …..If you decide against reporting it, find a trusted person you can talk to…. Also, seek medical attention for the possibility of pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease” (Insight magazine, 1995).

Rape is a traumatic experience. Recovery takes time. Fear, anger, depression, guilt are some emotions you have to deal with. But Jesus says, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). The Lord asks you to unburden your emotional load to Him. He will help you restore your peace of mind.

Tags: rape case, rape case against my boyfriend, rape cross-examination, Rape traumatic experience, rape victim, rape victim by boyfriend, Raped by boyfriend