La Union LGU urged to shut down ‘brothel’

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The office of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Ilocos region is urging the municipal government of Agoo in La Union to shut down a videoke bar allegedly engaged in prostitution.

Lawyer Hector Eduard Geologo, NBI-Ilocos chief, said they recommended to Agoo Mayor Frank Sibuma the permanent closure of the Juan Shot Videoke Bar located in Barangay San Francisco, which NBI agents raided earlier.

At least 11 women and a minor, who served as the bar’s cashier, were rescued during the raid.

Geologo said the minor turned out to be a son of the owner, who claimed she allowed him to work as she needed to attend to a medical emergency.

The bar’s guest relations officers reportedly offer sex services to customers for P2,000, the NBI said.

The bar owner and her helper were charged for violation of Republic Act 9208 or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003.