Review of Therapeutic Care for Survivors of Online Sexual Exploitation in the Philippines
File Type
Project Document
Publication Date
2024
Description
In studies and reports conducted on online sexual exploitation and abuse of children (OSAEC), identified gaps include understanding programmes and services for victim-survivors. In the Philippines, care services consist of a blend of programmes specifically tailored for OSAEC and more generalised therapies for trauma. However, there is a lack of documentation regarding the variety of programmes available and the experiences of service providers during implementation. This qualitative study aims to provide a comprehensive description and critical analysis of these existing programmes and services.
Twenty-two in-depth interviews were conducted with key informants from selected government agencies and non-government organisations involved in providing services for the case management of victim-survivors of OSAEC in identified hotspots.
A thematic analysis of the interviews revealed that a range of programmes and services are offered to address the needs of the survivors in various aspects of their lives, encompassing psychological, medical, educational, spiritual, and even the recreation of home life. A trauma-informed approach was commonly employed, with care often tailored based on age and gender. Challenges and facilitating factors in providing care were also identified, including limited evaluation of existing programmes and services. The findings carry implications for the ongoing implementation of these programmes, the development of new services and programmes, and the formulation of further policies and laws addressing OSAEC and broader issues concerning child protection and wellbeing.
About the Project
The study was conducted by the Social Development Research Center of De La Salle University under World Hope International’s Protecting At-Risk Children Vulnerable to Exploitation (PAVE) project. PAVE seeks to develop and strengthen systems for the comprehensive care of survivors of online sexual exploitation of children in the Philippines. The research was led by Dr. Mary Angeline A. Daganzo, together with Co-Investigator Kimberly Kaye Mata, Consultant Dr. Maria Caridad H. Tarroja, and Research Assistant Ian Glenn Hao Baretto. By documenting and analyzing existing therapeutic programs and services, the study contributes evidence for improving interventions, strengthening aftercare, and informing policies for OSAEC victim-survivors. The study was made possible through the support of World Hope International and The Salvation Army.
Recommended Citation
Daganzo, M. A., Mata, K. K., & Tarroja, M. C. (2025). Review of therapeutic care for survivors of online sexual exploitation in the Philippines. Child Care in Practice, 31(4), 553–570. https://doi.org/10.1080/13575279.2024.2377709
