MANILA, Philippines — A rape victim who was assaulted at the age of 16 sought the help of anti-crime watchdog Citizens Crime Watch (CCW), claiming that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is mishandling her case because the respondent, Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, is also the main witness and whistleblower in the high-profile missing sabungeros case. In a handwritten letter dated Feb. 10, 2021 addressed to CCW president Diego Magpantay, the victim, who identified herself only as “Gracie,” claimed she was being denied justice because the respondent was a “known individual” who allegedly received preferential treatment. Now 21, Gracie claimed the respondent was being protected by authorities due to his status as a state witness in a separate high-profile case, which she claimed the government was prioritizing over her rape complaint. “We are currently in the preliminary investigation, but I cannot help but worry because my opponent is a known individual with many connections,” the victim wrote in Filipino. “He is also a witness in a case involving missing money, which is why I fear I am not being given fair treatment.” Gracie’s counsel, Glessa Janolino, said both the respondent’s legal team and the investigating prosecutors have displayed conduct that undermined confidence in the impartiality of the proceedings. “We are constantly being given the impression that the perpetrator, Mr. Patidongan or ‘Dondon,’ is a protected individual who can do no wrong in the eyes of the DOJ,” Janolino said. “This is wrong, because my client feels that she is being preyed upon again and that her rights are being violated anew.” CCW Chairman Ferdinand Topacio said the group was extending full support to the victim, including legal assistance, moral support, and personal counseling. “Our group is behind the victim all the way,” Topacio said. “We will provide not only legal assistance but also moral support and even personal counselling.” The DOJ has yet to issue a statement as of posting time.