PB member seeks probe on alleged prostitution in Consolacion

Local

A MEMBER of the Cebu Provincial Board has filed a resolution that calls for an investigation into reports of alleged prostitution happening in Consolacion town, northern Cebu town.

Cebu Sixth District Board Member Larenz Lagon urged the chief of the Consolacion police to look into reports of illicit activities allegedly happening in Sta. Lucia Square.

Lagon disclosed that he received disturbing accounts of sex-for-hire operations taking place in public view within the vicinity of Sta. Lucia Square.

In an interview on Monday, July 21, Lagon said these operations reportedly involve minors and have allegedly persisted for several years.

According to Lagon, his office staff visited the area between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. and observed the presence of individuals suspected to be engaged in prostitution.

He noted that this prompted him to act swiftly by filing the resolution for the chief of police to verify the situation and take steps in accordance with the law.

Lagon explained that his initiative stemmed not only from external complaints but also from firsthand accounts provided by people in his own network.

One of his staff members, who previously served as a municipal official in Poblacion, and some current workers from the area, raised concerns to him about the long-standing issue.

He said the problem has reportedly been ongoing for the past six years.

He also consulted with the new barangay captain of Poblacion Oriental, who reviewed previous barangay records but found no official documentation related to prostitution in the area.

This lack of formal records further pushed Lagon to seek a police report to establish the scope of the problem and provide a basis for coordinating social intervention.

As part of the resolution, Lagon asked for an annual report from the police, which he said would help determine the next steps, including the involvement of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) to assist possible victims.

“There are people, especially minors, being involved in that matter,” Lagon said in an interview. “That’s why I made this urgent resolution. We have to adopt it and send it right away to the chief of police.”

Lagon also highlighted that even with the presence of police patrols in the area, the alleged operations continue discreetly.

Based on what he was told, individuals involved in prostitution reportedly scatter and hide when police are nearby but return shortly after patrols leave.

He added that both locals and foreigners have allegedly been seen picking up individuals and transporting them to motels.

While specific figures have yet to be confirmed, Lagon emphasized the need for coordinated government action, saying he intends to tap social welfare offices once a formal report from the police is made available.

“As a vocal person of the sixth district, I should be part of the solution and help the people of Poblacion, especially those who are victimized,” he said.

Under Philippine law, prostitution is punishable under Article 202 of the Revised Penal Code.

However, the legal system provides more comprehensive protection when minors are involved through Republic Act No. 7610 or the “Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.”

This law defines and penalizes child prostitution and other forms of sexual exploitation, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to life sentences depending on the gravity of the offense.

In addition, Republic Act No. 9208, as amended by R.A. 10364 or the “Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act,” imposes severe penalties on those found guilty of trafficking persons for sexual purposes, particularly when minors are involved.

Offenders may face life imprisonment and fines ranging from P2 million to P5 million.(MyTVCebu)