Lawmaker wants distribution of sex toys regulated

ALARMED by the rise of sex-related crimes in the country, a lawmaker is seeking to regulate the increasing proliferation of sex toys in the local market.

"The proliferation of these obscene devices [that] are insensitively and openly displayed in shops or stalls is very alarming. The public, especially minors, being exposed to these obscenities may suffer disturbing effects and could trigger sexually impure ideas and acts that give room to sex-related offenses," Buhay party-list Representative Irwin Tieng said.

In filing House Bill (HB) 4509, Tieng said he was out to safeguard the moral, spiritual, and social being of the citizens from the destructive effects of these "obscene devices".

The measure seeks to penalize the production of such devices with penalties of imprisonment and amounts ranging from P10,000 to P30,000.

Tieng said there is an influx of these kinds of devices in the Philippines, especially in Metro Manila, identifying areas in Quiapo, Sta. Cruz, and Recto as among the areas where sex toys are allegedly proliferating.

The bill also calls on government agents to pursue an intensive and unrelenting campaign against the distribution, possession with intent to distribute and production of any obscene device.

HB 4509 tasks the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Interior and Local Government, and the Department of Justice to implement and promulgate the proposed law.

"This is also in keeping with the policy of the state to value the dignity of every human person and to promote and safeguard its integrity," Tieng said. (Kathrina Alvarez/Sunnex)