ZAMBOANGA CITY, Zamboanga del Sur –– The rise in the number of prostitution and abduction cases involving Chinese nationals came as the number of Chinese tourists and workers in the country increased.
This was the observation by Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brigadier General Bernard Banac.
“There was a sudden influx of Chinese nationals who visit and work in the country. There was also a rise in the incidents of prostitution and abduction of Chinese nationals,’ Banac told reporters in a press briefing here Wednesday.
“The victims are Chinese nationals and the suspects are also Chinese nationals, even in the prostitution (operations), the ones running the dens are Chinese,” Banac added.
The operation of sex dens for Chinese offshore gaming workers has recently been in the spotlight.
Banac said PNP Chief Francisco Gamboa has ordered cops,
especially those in the Women and Children Protection Centers, to intensify their drive against prostitution in the country related to offshore gaming.
He has issued an order to intensify the campaign against prostitution, especially related to offshore gaming operation, Banac said.
In 2019, the PNP’s WCPC conducted raids against sex dens resulting in the rescue of 140 victims, all foreigners, and the arrest of 55 suspects, Banac noted.
This was on top of the arrests that resulted in the operations launched by the National Capital Region Police Office, which busted several prostitution dens in Metro Manila.
The PNP has intensified its monitoring, in coordination with local police units, local governments, and local social welfare offices, “so we would know where they are hiding,” Banac said.
There is a punishment for violating the laws. We will not stop until they are arrested and jailed, Banac added.
The PNP reminds foreign visitors, tourists, and workers to respect and follow the country’s laws or face arrest, he said.
Banac urged the public to remain alert and vigilant and report to authorities suspected sex dens and other illegal acts committed by foreign nationals.