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Artworks by survivors of online child sex abuse on display at Consulate

23 October 2024

 

The exhibit hopes to bring light to victims of child sex abuse

A special art exhibit dubbed “Gallery of Hope” is on at the Consulate’s public  area, to mark the Museums and Galleries Month this October.

The exhibit, dubbed “Gallery of Hope”, showcases art works by children who have survived online sexual abuse and exploitation in the Philippines.

Despite the nightmare that they were made endure, the contributing artists opted to make bright and colourful drawings, a reminder to everyone that a grim past should not hinder a brighter future.

Some information about online sex exploitation is flashed on the screen in the public area

In a survey report published only  last October 9, the United Nations Children’s Educational Fund (Unicef) revealed that one girl in every eight worldwide experienced rape or sexual assault before the age of 18.

The situation is most dire in the Philippines, which is now said to be considered the center of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children worldwide.

An earlier Unicef survey found that 7 million children are reportedly sexually and physically abused in the country each year.

Basahin ang detalye!

The abuse is committed within families and the community, and many local governments are reportedly complicit as they give permits to operate to sex bars, clubs and hotels where trafficked minors are brought to and sold for sex to customers, many of whom are foreigners.

The problem is highlighted in a case reported Tuesday, where a Filipino mother and her live-in partner were arrested for allegedly selling sexually explicit photos and videos of the woman's six-year-old son to pedophiles abroad for between Php1,500 to Php5,000 per material.

The alleged offence was uncovered by police investigators who were tipped off by Australian authorities after one of the couple's clients was arrested. The boy’s mother reportedly met potential clients on online dating sites.

Both she and her partner were arrested and charged with online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, which is punishable under RA11930 with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment and P2 million in fine.

Consul General Germinia Usudan poses with staff and guests at the exhibit launch on Oct 13

At the exhibit’s launch, the Consulate took the opportunity to distribute informational brochures from the government on the growing problem of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children in the country.

The exhibition is open to the public until the end of October at the “Sining Malaya Art Corner” located at the Philippine Consulate’s public area from Sunday to Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

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