DSWD backs bill to decriminalize prostitution

MANILA, Philippines - Persons who engage in prostitution may no longer be prosecuted by the government if a bill filed at the House of Representatives will be enacted into law.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development said it supports the efforts of the House of Representatives to pursue legislation to address the problem of prostitution and prosecute those who control and profit from the trade instead of persons who engage in prostitution.

"We all know, that most, if not all prostituted persons are forced to enter and engage into this activity because of compelling reasons such as poverty or they are victims of human trafficking. The government will continue to provide programs and services to uplift their economic well-being," said DSWD Secretary Corazon Soliman.

The Anti-Prostitution Biill will effectively repeal the clauses under Articles 202 and 341 of the Revised Penal Code that punish "women who, for money engage in sexual intercourse, or lascivious conduct."

Soliman, in a letter addressed to Rep. Neil Tupas, Committee on Justice chairman, said the bill is among the priority legislative agenda of the DSWD.

Under the bill, victims will be provided social protection and prosecute persons who control and profit from the trade by exploiting the victims' poverty. The bill will also provide programs and services to help prostitution victims.

The bill also proposes the creation of a National Anti-Prostitution Coouncil to be led by the DSWD and will be composed of various government agencies, non-government organizations and persons exploited in prostitution.

The DSWD, however, added that it opposes any move to legalize prostitution in the country.

Presently, the DSWD has 26 residential care facilities nationwide providing rehabilitative and protective programs for children and women in difficult circumstance.