THE Cebu Provincial Board has requested the Consolacion police chief to investigate alleged prostitution in Sta. Lucia Square in the northern town, following reports that minors are involved.
Board Member Larenz Lagon, who sponsored the resolution, told reporters in an interview at the Capitol legislative building on Monday, July 21, 2025, that his staff found evidence of minors in prostitution after checking the area. However, he did not show the evidence during the interview, saying that there were reports forwarded to him.
Lagon said people primarily gather in the square between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m.
The resolution formally requests the Consolacion police to conduct a thorough investigation into the long-standing allegations.
The board member said the alleged prostitution has occurred for the past six years, citing reports from barangay workers. However, he noted that the current barangay captain has no record of formal reports on the activity.
“That’s why, myself, I also requested for a report from the police,” Lagon said.
Lagon expressed frustration that those involved temporarily dispersed when police patrol the area, only to return and “continue the business.”
He added that both locals and foreigners are alleged clients, reportedly picking up individuals and taking them to motels.
Given the involvement of minors, Lagon said the police currently bring them to barangays and return them home.
“It’s like really a circle. So, they’ll go back to their house and do it again,” he said.
Lagon plans to use the police report to leverage further action. He seeks to connect with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Municipal Social Welfare and Development for more comprehensive intervention, aiming to break the cycle of exploitation. / JPS