Prostitution

Abstract

Prostitution is commonly associated with low incomes, and is attracting more and more girls — and children — in the Philippines. Sexual relationships outside marriage have traditionally been unacceptable to young people and their families within the framework of everyday religious life in the country. Of course, as in almost every town and city in the world, prostitutes have always been available, but the wholesale movement of Filipinas into prostitution is a comparatively new phenomenon. About 500 000 Filipinas are prostitutes — either full-time, or as a supplement to other employment. All run the risks associated with prostitution: venereal disease, psychological problems, violence from the clients, and even death at the hands of their employers — or clients. Yet, for the poor, and their families, there is also, except in the worst cases, access to food and health care — and to life itself.