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A Bird Flies Away

For many children, poverty means a daily struggle to survive, often without any hope of a better future. In countries like the Philippines, this frequently leads to sexual exploitation of children, in many cases involving family members.

The harm is not only physical, but also psychological, with trauma that lasts a lifetime. Even when children are ‘rescued’ from these situations, the impact remains significant. Without a broader solution, it remains a matter of treating symptoms. As long as the demand for abusive material continues, this problem will persist. Sustainable change requires more than legal measures. It calls for empathy, prevention, and genuine care, without subjecting the children to further exploitation.

A Bird Flies Away shines a light on incredibly resilient young women. Their testimonies call for awareness, solidarity, and the pursuit of change.

© 2026 Matthias Verhaegen. All rights reserved.

Photographer

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