Prelate asks gov’t to stop ‘sex tourism’ in Palawan

Puerto Princesa Bishop Pedro Arigo. Photo from https://cbcpwebsite.com

MANILA, Philippines—A Catholic bishop is calling on the government to act on the rising “sex tourism” in Palawan, one of the country’s most popular summer destinations for both local and foreign tourists.

Puerto Princesa Bishop Pedro Arigo, in an article posted on the website of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, said Palawan faces an increasingly serious child exploitation and sex tourism problem despite the generally positive impact of the tourism industry.

The bishop urged the authorities to show their determination to crack down on sex tourism, which he said was showing an alarming trend in the area.

“Let’s keep eco-tourism as what it is and not by adding immoral and malice practices,” Arigo said.

He called on government agencies to be more vigilant and address the growing problem. According to him, this is not a problem in Palawan only, but in the whole country.

“As much as possible, especially here in Palawan where ecotourism is very popular, let’s keep tourism wholesome, healthy and clean,” Arigo said.

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