Sex work is everywhere in the Philippines, whether we admit it or not. From dimly lit massage parlors in Pasay to low-key bars in Cebu’s Mango Avenue, and even private chats and online platforms, it’s happening. And while many pretend it’s not part of our daily lives, it continues to thrive.
What’s even more interesting? There’s a growing call from activists to decriminalize sex work—not to encourage it, but to protect the people doing it. On the flip side, conservative groups, especially religious ones, strongly oppose this. They argue it will destroy morality, family values, and the country’s Catholic roots.
Pero tanong ng marami, “Kung nandiyan na talaga at ginagawa na, hindi ba dapat siguraduhin na ligtas ito para sa lahat ng involved?”
Widespread but Underground
In Metro Manila alone, sex work takes many forms—from street-based workers and brothels disguised as massage spas, to VIP escort services and cam girls online. Marami diyan sa EDSA, Pasay Rotonda, Makati, and even sa mga condo units na binebenta ang “companionship services.”
In Cebu, it’s not so different. Along Mango Square, Colon Street, and nearby areas, it’s an open secret. “Dili man gud na mawala, bisag unsa pa ka-strikto ang gobyerno,” sabi ng ilang Cebuanos.
And now, with social media and messaging apps, the game has changed. Kahit walang red light district, may red light economy online. Some offer “GFE” or “sugar baby” setups via Telegram, Facebook groups, and dating apps. For many, it’s a way to survive.
The Problem with the Law
Under Philippine law, sex work is technically illegal. The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and the Revised Penal Code penalize prostitution. But here’s the catch: it’s usually the workers who get arrested, not the pimps, customers, or syndicates behind them.
This is what many call “victim punishment.” Instead of helping sex workers escape dangerous situations, the law turns them into criminals. May mga babae’t bakla na hinuhuli, ikinukulong, at minsan pa nga’y kinikikilan. Some experience abuse from police themselves.
That’s why human rights groups and progressive advocates are pushing to decriminalize sex work. Not to glamorize it, but to give workers access to protection, health care, and legal support. Kung mabibigyan sila ng legal status, mas madali silang protektahan laban sa pang-aabuso, karahasan, at exploitation.
Why Some Women Choose It
Hindi lahat ng sex workers ay biktima. While many are trafficked or forced by poverty, some actually choose this kind of work because it pays more than any regular job available to them.
A 20-year-old college dropout in Quezon City can make ₱5,000 to ₱10,000 a night. A woman from Mandaue City may earn more in one week online than working two jobs.
It’s not just about the money—it’s also about control. Some say it’s empowering, especially those who manage their own clients, set their own prices, and work on their own terms.
Pero syempre, it’s not always safe or fair. Marami pa ring nananamantala, maraming takot na lumapit sa authorities dahil nga ilegal. “Dili mi gusto mahimong sikat, gusto lang mi nga safe mi sa among trabaho,” sabi ng isang online sex worker.
The Clash with Tradition
The Philippines is still a very conservative country. Catholic values are deeply embedded in schools, politics, and homes. So when someone says “legalize sex work,” maraming tao ang napa-“Hala!” agad.
Religious groups argue that it will promote immorality, destroy families, and harm women. But sex workers and their allies argue the opposite: they’re already working—so why not make it safer?
Think about it: wala namang nagagalit sa mga “hidden relationships” ng mayayaman. Pero kapag mahirap at babae ang nagtatrabaho sa ganitong paraan para mabuhay, society throws judgment.
It’s a double standard na matagal nang umiiral.
What Decriminalization Could Do
If sex work is decriminalized—not necessarily legalized, but decriminalized—it could mean:
- No more jail time for workers
- Better access to health services and HIV protection
- Legal protections against abuse and rape
- Workers can report crimes without fear
- More government oversight to prevent trafficking
It’s not a magic solution, but it’s a start. Para sa mga taong hindi nakaka-relate, it might sound shocking. Pero para sa maraming nagtatrabaho sa ganitong field, it could mean the difference between life and death.
Sex work is part of the underground economy. It’s not about encouraging it—it’s about recognizing the reality, and helping the people involved stay safe, healthy, and protected.
We don’t have to agree with it. But we do have to face it. And maybe, just maybe, it’s time to listen to the voices of the women and LGBTQ+ workers who know the industry best—because they live it every day.
Mike m. luster 