JUNE 5, 2011

NR # 2426

Solons want to prohibit the use of sex toys and gadgets

Possession and distribution of sex toys and gadgets that are being used to stimulate human
genitals will soon be prohibited.

Reps. Irwin Tieng and Mariano Michael Velarde (Party-list, Buhay), authors of House Bill
4509, said there is now an influx of commonly called sex toys and gadgets in the country,
especially in Metro Manila.

“The influence of obscene devices designed primarily for the physical stimulation of
human genitals may seem unnoticed. The proliferation of these obscene devices which are
insensitively and openly displayed in shops or stalls is very alarming,” Tieng said.

Tieng said the public, especially minors who are being exposed to these obscenities, may
suffer disturbing effects and could trigger sexually impure ideas and acts that give room to sex
related offenses.

Velarde said the bill aims to penalize the distribution, possession with intent to distribute
and production of any obscene device designed or marketed as useful primarily for the physical
stimulation of human genital organs for anything of pecuniary value in order to protect the
morals of the society.

“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 and the moral, spiritual and social being of its
citizenry from the pernicious effects of obscene devices,” Velarde stressed.

Under the measure, a person can be criminally liable if he, being a wholesaler knowingly
distributes, possesses with intent to distribute, or offers or agrees to distribute, for the purpose of
resale or commercial distribution and retail of the same and knowingly produces or offers or
agrees to produce the same.

A device not otherwise obscene may be obscene under the measure if the distribution of
the device, the offer to do so, or the possession with the intent to do so, or production, the offer or
agreement to do so, is a commercial exploitation of erotica solely for the sake of their prurient
appeal.

The Departments of Trade and Industry (DTI), Interior and Local Government (DILG) and
Justice (DOJ) are mandated to promulgate a procedure for the prosecution of violators and other
necessary rules and regulations.

Violators shall be penalized with imprisonment of one year and a fine of P30,000. (30) lvc