Sison: De-criminalizing prostitution

ANGELES CITY health authorities reported 10 new suspected cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Dr. Teresita Esguerra, chief of the social hygiene center of the city health office, also noted an eight percent increase in cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among thousands of women registered as workers in local bars and other tourist-oriented establishments (Ding Cervantes, Philippine Star, January 05, 2011).

There are about half a million sex workers in the Philippines, most of who were lured and exploited by crime syndicates, according to the Philippine Commission on Women. This prompted lawmakers to file several measures decriminalizing prostitution and upholding the rights of victims being exploited by crime syndicates.

Rep. Susan Yap (2nd District, Tarlac), principal author of House Bill 1706, said decriminalizing prostitution could be a new approach in addressing the problem.

The Revised Penal Code, which punishes women who engage in sexual intercourse for money, fails to recognize compelling reasons such as poverty and human trafficking.

Citing a report of the Philippine Commission on Women, Yap said of the estimated 500,000 sex workers in the country, 100,000 are children. The existing law also fails to address the criminal liability of exploiters such as recruiters, pimps, bar or brothel owners and customers who cause the prostitution. –Mark Allen C. Sison, Sun Star

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