Zamboanga evacuees turn into sex workers to survive

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - The City Health Office (CHO) was alarmed over the reported increasing number of freelance and fly-by-night sex workers in the evacuation centers in this city, an official said.

The freelance sex workers, who were reportedly among those evacuees who fled from the directly affected barangays during the siege staged by the Misuari-faction Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), were allegedly giving discounts to survive from their plight as evacuees.

Dr. Rodeline Agbulos, CHO chief, confirmed they have received similar reports that the sex workers were thriving in the evacuation centers.

Agbulos said they were alarmed over the reported number of the freelance sex workers in the evacuation centers who were reportedly using the portalets, bleachers and some tents to conduct their sexual engagement. 

“These freelance sex workers were allegedly offering discount and 'bagsak presyo' to their would-be clients in the evacuation centers,” Agbulos said. 

He said the freelance sex workers are highly mobile and if the reports are positive, Agbulos said this caused alarm of the possible spread of sexually transmitted diseases. 

He said they have coordinated with the AIDS Desk and the Department of Health in mapping up and tracking down those allege evacuees engaged in the reported freelance sex worker and to provide counseling.

Agbulos said they have also recommended the regular rounds and inspection on the portalets and bleachers while additional lights were also recommended at night.