13 workers rescued from 2 ‘extra service’ spas in Cebu

CEBU CITY, Philippines – Police arrested two people and rescued 13 massage therapists who were reportedly asked regularly to do “extra service” for clients in Barangay Mabolo and Barangay Cogon Ramos here after two separate raids were conducted on Saturday evening, Dec. 14.

The manager and cashier of the massage parlors were taken into police custody pending the filing of charges for violating the Anti-trafficking in Persons Act (Republic Act No. 9208).

The names of the suspects and the rescued therapists were withheld.

Lt. Erlinda Mayam, head of the Women and Children’s Protection Desk (WCPD) of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), said they had been receiving reports regarding the illegal transactions inside the two spas.

“We conducted a case buildup after receiving the reports. Upon validation, we found out that the reports against the spas have basis and are true,” said Mayam.

The police were able to rescue seven masseurs and six masseuses.

According to reports, the massage therapists allegedly offered “extra service” for at least P500.

Extra service pertains to sexual services provided by the therapists to the client.

“This spa has been involved in an illegal activity where they use their staff members for prostitution. They offer extra services to customers,” Mayam said.

She said the spas had been frequented by customers because they were known to the public as prostitution hubs.

/atm