MONEY problems have forced some students to enter the sex industry on Twitter.

Originally a platform for sexual expression for some adults, #AlterPH, #AlterPinay, and #AlterPhilippines were recently flooded with newcomers, hoping to get into the business to finance their education.

For as low as P30, an anonymous internet user can avail of ‘services’ like sensual photos, videos, video calls, or face reveals.

The common mode of payment is either through GCash, PayPal, or bank transfer. Tips for ‘good service’ are also sent through these modes.

Some students said that they are open for bookings around Metro Manila but they require a downpayment days before the meetup.

They said that turning to sex work was a last resort.

“It was a ‘kapit sa patalim’ decision. Isa rin ako sa mga nagbebenta ng mga larawan at video na hindi kaaya-aya para lang makalikom ng pambili ng laptop. Kasambahay ang nanay ko, ngayon ay nahinto siya sa trabaho at umeekstra na lamang… ang tatay ko naman ay tricycle driver na kumikta ng P200 to P500 sa isang araw,” one student confessed at the Philippine Normal University Freedom Wall.

A women’s rights advocate group in PNU expressed concern over the reports of students engaging in online pornography and sex trade.

“Ang ganitong kalagayan ng kabataang kababaihan sa lipunan ay pinalala ng pagbubukas ng klase sa ilalim ng palpak at pabayang pagtugon ng pamahaalan sa pandemya,” Gabriela Youth PNU said.

Education officials have yet to issue a statement addressing the issue.