Sex | Spakols
Disclaimer: This guide covers some sensitive ground, touching on a side of the Philippine nightlife that operates in a legal gray area. It is meant to inform, not to encourage any behavior that could lead to legal trouble.
In the Philippines, there’s a term you might come across called “spakol”. It’s a local slang word that blends “spa” and “jakol” (which is Filipino slang for masturbation). Essentially, spakols are massage parlors that might look like your regular wellness spa but are known for offering services that go beyond just a standard back massage. While they may seem like typical massage centers, some of these establishments offer extra, more intimate services if one knows what to ask for. They’re often discreet about it, balancing a legitimate business front with hidden services.
From the outside, spakols generally resemble any other massage spa. Their signage advertises names like “Relaxation Spa” or “Wellness Center,” blending in with many legitimate businesses. But there are some clues that suggest they might offer more. For example, many have windows that are heavily tinted or covered with curtains, ensuring no one can peek inside. They might also have side or back entrances, which help clients maintain their privacy when entering or leaving. Inside, the setup starts like any regular spa, with a reception desk, a calming waiting area, and maybe some relaxing music. But beyond this, the massage rooms — equipped with beds, private showers, and dim lighting — are designed for more than just a Swedish massage. Some of these places even have VIP rooms with additional space, better soundproofing, and more comfortable furniture, offering clients a more private setting.
Recognizing a spakol can be tricky, but there are a few signs to watch for. One is the hours of operation — spas usually close around 10 PM, while spakols often stay open much later, sometimes into the early hours of the morning. Word about spakols typically spreads through word-of-mouth or online forums rather than overt advertising. Another clue can be the way staff speak, using phrases like “special massage” or “extra service” that hint at something more than a standard session. If the rates for a massage seem higher than usual, this can also be an indicator that the place offers more than just a relaxing foot rub.
Inside a spakol, the process typically starts when clients choose a masseuse, often from a roster or a photo album. After making a selection, there’s often a discussion — sometimes with the masseuse, sometimes through the receptionist — about the available services. It’s during this stage that terms like “extras” may come up, referring to additional, more personal services. The session generally starts as a regular massage, but it can progress based on what was negotiated. If any extra services are provided, payment is usually handled as a direct tip to the masseuse rather than as part of the official bill.
The pricing at a spakol varies depending on the services and the type of room. A basic room or entrance fee ranges from PHP 500 to PHP 1,500, covering the space and a standard massage. However, tips for extras can range from PHP 1,000 to PHP 5,000, depending on the agreement. If a client opts for a VIP room, the cost can increase by another PHP 2,000 to PHP 3,000. All in all, a visit to a spakol might cost anywhere from PHP 2,000 to PHP 10,000+, depending on what is included in the service.
However, visiting a spakol carries certain risks. Many of these places operate in a legal gray area, which means they are sometimes subject to police raids. Getting caught in one can result in fines or even arrest. Health and safety standards may also be inconsistent, as spakols don’t always adhere to the regulations that govern traditional spas. Additionally, some of these establishments exploit their workers, and not everyone is there by choice, raising serious ethical concerns. Supporting these places can perpetuate issues like exploitation and trafficking. It’s also worth noting that Filipino society is generally conservative, and being associated with a spakol can carry significant social stigma.
So, why do spakols exist? It’s a combination of demand, economic factors, and lenient enforcement of regulations. There’s a market for adult services, and spakols meet that demand while maintaining a legitimate-looking facade. Economic pressures also play a role, as some women work in these establishments due to a lack of better opportunities, using the higher pay to support themselves. The lack of strict law enforcement also allows these places to continue operating, as long as they maintain a low profile.
Spakols might seem like any other massage spa from the outside, but they often operate by a different set of rules. If you encounter a spa that’s open well past midnight and seems unusually private, it’s possible that it’s more than just a place for a relaxing massage. But as with anything, it’s important to be well-informed, aware of potential risks, and respectful of local laws and norms.
