It has been a challenging year for the whole world, and the Philippines is not exempted from this. With Covid-19 still out there, the vaccine has yet to reach us, and the economy heavily affected, Filipinos are trying their best to keep themselves healthy and make ends meet.
With lower or no income coming in, some women have resorted to looking for “extra money” in exchange for “romance.” The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) reminded women “to be cautious in joining websites, e-groups, or apps claiming to offer opportunities for seeking romance and finance.”
These sugar daddies and their babies make their match online and agree on the arrangements which may include monthly allowance. In turn, the “babies” give whatever they both agree on—be it companionship, dates, or even a romantic relationship.
PCW also stated that these individuals and groups exploit these women who need the extra income. This holds very true now, since the pandemic is similar to a post-disaster or post-war scenario. Economy is at a low, with many jobless and struggling.
There are a number of laws that are violated for this alternative means of earning.
- It can be considered a form of prostitution. Under the Expanded Anti-trafficking in Persons Act (RA 10364), prostitution refers to any act, transaction, scheme or design involving the use of a person by another, for sexual intercourse or lascivious conduct in exchange for money, profit or any other consideration.
- Communication between the two parties will most likely lead to sharing of sensitive and private photos and materials which might eventually be used as blackmail. It can even be used without consent. This is punishable under the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009 (RA 9995).
- Women of all ages, including very young children, are also possible victims. Some guardians would resort to pushing kids to do the work. There are a lot of pedophiles out there. According to the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009 (RA 9775), child pornography refers to any representation, whether visual, audio, or written combination thereof, by electronic, mechanical, digital, optical, magnetic or any other means, of child engaged or involved in real or simulated explicit sexual activities.
The Inter-Agency Council is working with PCW against trafficking. Those who wish to report incidents of abuse may call PCW at 632-87351645 and 632-87365249.