"They Shamed Me": An Exploratory Study on the Vulnerabilities of Street-Involved Boys to Sexual Exploitation in Manila, Philippines

Author: Davis, Jarrett & Miles, Glenn

Abstract: This exploratory study is one of a series of research projects interviewing survivors of sexual exploitation in Southeast Asia. It assesses the risk factors and vulnerabilities of street children in Manila. This research study assesses the risk factors and vulnerabilities of street children in this context. A questionnaire-based survey was administered to participants to gain a holistic view of the lives of 51 street-involved (street-living or streetworking) boys from the Manila area. The survey consisted of a series of questions about demographics, family background, prejudice and discrimination, sexual risk factors, substance abuse, sexual violence and abuse, income generation, spirituality, and future plans. The key findings of this survey indicate that most of the participants were experiencing physical, sexual and substance abuse. Furthermore, participants revealed the stigma and discrimination they experience from working on the streets and demonstrate the internal struggle between providing for their families and societal traditions. By truly understanding these effects and the factors leading up to sexual exploitation and their hopes for the future, then their needs can best be met. Direct service providers can use the findings of the study to provide services that are tailored to meet the specific needs of the target vulnerable population and prevent further exploitation.

Keywords: Philippines, Manila, boys, street, sexual exploitation, sexual violence, abuse, commercial sexual exploitation, pornography, stigma, health, discrimination, violence, shelter, substance abuse, assistance