THE IMPACT OF POVERTY IN SHAPING VICTIMIZATION OF PROSTITUTES AT BARANGAY NOVA PROPER, NOVALICHES QUEZON CITY

Abstract

Prostitution is a complex and controversial issue that has existed throughout history. It involves the exchange of sexual services for money or goods, raising important questions related to legality, morality, and human rights. Understanding prostitution from a social perspective requires exploring its impact on individuals and communities, as well as how societal attitudes and structures influence it. According to Ogbomo, Jardstedt, and Gran (2020), under current criminal law, prostitution or sex work refers to the provision of sexual services in exchange for money or other forms of compensation. The majority of individuals engaged in this field are women. This study utilized a survey questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument. The respondents were focused specifically on prostitutes residing in Barangay Nova Proper, Novaliches, Quezon City. A total of 30 respondents, all prostitutes living in the said barangay, were selected for the study. Researchers distributed the questionnaires directly to the respondents, explaining the purpose of the survey to encourage cooperation. Completed questionnaires were collected immediately on-site to minimize the risk of respondent collusion. The results revealed that economic necessity is a significant factor, with respondents agreeing that "Lack of money due to economic conditions leads to entering prostitution," which received a peak weighted mean of 3.17. Regarding education, "Lack of education increases vulnerability to exploitation in the sex industry," with the highest weighted mean of 3.27. In terms of homelessness, the statement "Lack of supportive social networks, such as family or community, influences a homeless person’s decision to engage in prostitution" was strongly supported, evidenced by a weighted mean of 3.23. The demographic profile of the respondents shows that 56.67% are aged 18-25, while only 3.33% are aged 42-50 or older. Females comprise the vast majority at 96.67%, with 86.67% being single and no married respondents. In terms of education, 30% have either no formal education or only completed high school. The primary causes of prostitution identified are economic necessity, lack of education, and homelessness. In Barangay Nova Proper, physical violence was reported as a significant issue by 28 respondents, alongside limited legal support and mental health concerns. Proposed solutions include increased access to education and job training programs, though anonymous reporting mechanisms received less support. The study highlights the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and the community in addressing these challenges effectively.