"They Shamed Me": An Exploratory Study on the Vulnerabilities of Street-Involved Boys to Sexual Exploitation in Manila, Philippines
Abstract
This exploratory study assesses the vulnerabilities of street-involved boys in Manila, Philippines. A questionnaire-based survey was administered to 51 street-involved boys from the Manila area, covering demographics, family background, prejudice and discrimination, sexual risk factors, substance abuse, sexual violence and abuse, income generation, spirituality, and future plans. The key findings indicate that most participants were experiencing physical, sexual, and substance abuse. Participants revealed stigma and discrimination from working on the streets and demonstrated an internal struggle between providing for their families and societal traditions. The study aims to provide a baseline of information to help NGOs and social service providers better understand and serve this often-overlooked group.
Keywords
- Philippines
- Manila
- Boys
- Street children
- Sexual exploitation
- Sexual violence
Key Findings
- 65% of street-involved boys disclosed some form of sexual abuse.
- 76% of participants were aware of boys who have been asked by adults to do sexual things.
- 27% of participants described instances of sexual abuse in exchange for money, food, or gifts.
- 69% of participants reported some level of sexual violence from at least one of five defined figures (parents, teachers, employers, other adults, other children).
- Physical violence was reported by the vast majority of respondents, with violence most commonly coming from parents and police officers.
Methodology
The study employed a questionnaire-based survey administered to 51 street-involved boys in Manila. The survey covered various aspects of their lives, including demographics, family background, experiences of violence and exploitation, and future plans. Social workers from three local NGOs conducted the interviews, which utilized both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
Implications
The study highlights the need for:
- Increased recognition of male vulnerability to sexual exploitation and violence in development circles
- Improved reporting mechanisms for male victims of sexual abuse
- Sensitization of law enforcement, families, and service providers to take sexual violence against boys seriously
- Development of comprehensive educational resources for awareness and prevention of sexual abuse/exploitation
- Public awareness campaigns to address stigma and discrimination against street-involved children
- Further research on the sexual exploitation and abuse of street-involved children in the Philippines
Citation
Davis, J. D., & Miles, G. M. (2019). "They Shamed Me": An Exploratory Study on the Vulnerabilities of Street-Involved Boys to Sexual Exploitation in Manila, Philippines. Dignity: A Journal of Analysis of Exploitation and Violence, 4(3), Article 2. https://doi.org/10.23860/dignity.2019.04.03.02
Last Updated: June 2019
