International Justice Mission estimate that 500,000 Filipino children were sexually exploited in 2022. Covid accelerated the trend, especially among the poorest communities in Manila. Exploitation is usually enabled by parents or extended family members. Children suffer trauma. Exploitation becomes normalised.

Kanlungan, Streetlight's partner in Manila has worked with children from street situations for over 30 years. Their team of committed and skilled social workers are well versed in psycho-social interventions. They have now developed a trauma counselling programme for children that have been abused online. The temporary residential centre is an oasis for recovery. There is a loving family atmosphere with house parents supporting the social workers. The approach is proven to work.