What to do when suspecting child abuse

King of Talk Boy Abunda and senators and siblings Pia and Alan Peter Cayetano

The latest episode of the free legal service program “CIA with BA” tackled a serious case of child abuse in which a concerned citizen sought the advice of senators and siblings Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano on what to do while King of Talk Boy Abunda moderated.

The case involved a 14-year-old girl from their neighborhood who continues to be raped and abused by a man and his son.

During the show, the hosts also urged viewers to speak up when they suspect someone is being abused, especially a child.

“If something really bad is happening in society, sometimes we don't want to talk about it because it's painful and devastating. But if we don't talk about it, it will only get worse,” said Senator Alan.

In relation, Abunda encouraged viewers to report any signs of abuse they witness, specifying, “If you see indicators — whether you're a friend, a neighbor, or just passing by — if you see indicators that a child is being abused, stand up for that child. Report it. Make it known.”

Senator Pia agreed with her co-hosts and emphasized that gut feelings about abuse come from scientific studies. “When we talk about seeing something, feeling something, having a gut feeling… there's actually a scientific study that says what you feel in your stomach comes from your brain,” she supported.

The hosts also reminded viewers not to jump to conclusions but to investigate any suspicions they may have.

“If you suspect something, explore it. There's nothing wrong with investigating, with exploring. So don't ignore it, but don't jump to conclusions,” said Senator Alan.

“CIA with BA” is a legal advice program that airs every Sunday at 11:30 p.m. on GMA Network. The show aims to educate viewers about the country's laws and how they affect their daily lives.

This Sunday, May 7, the show will review the interesting topics discussed in past episodes, including this one on suspected abuse.

Through “CIA with BA,” Senators Alan and Pia are carrying on the legacy of their late father, Senator Rene Cayetano, who co-hosted the popular legal advice program “Compañero y Compañera” on radio and television from 1997 to 2001.

With this reformat, the siblings continue to use their legal expertise to help and educate the public.