Abstract:
Prostitution in the Philippines is problematized as a persistent social challenge, deeply
intertwined with issues of gender inequality, poverty, and human rights violations. Sex work,
often a form of sexual exploitation, disproportionately affects women and girls, many of whom
are mothers struggling to provide for their families. Despite legislative efforts to eradicate
prostitution, the practice persists, driven by economic necessity and systemic marginalization.
However, existing research largely overlooks the lived experiences of mothers engaged in sex
work through the lens of Area Studies, particularly in Malate, Manila. This study addresses that
gap by employing a phenomenological approach to explore how these women navigate both their
maternal roles and the realities of the sex trade. Using purposive and snowball sampling,
semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten respondents. Thematic analysis, guided by
Third World Feminism and Intersectional Feminism, reveals the personal and societal obstacles
these women face, including stigma, economic challenges, and violence. It also examines their
strategies for resisting, negotiating, and redefining societal expectations. By highlighting the
intersection of gender, poverty, and motherhood in the context of sex work, this study offers a
more nuanced understanding of their experiences, contributing to feminist and sociological
discourse while informing policy and advocacy efforts.
