Guidelines on proper use of Internet sought

CEBU, Philippines - Amidst the sex video controversy involving a female college student that became viral in the Internet, the Cebu Provincial Board yesterday asked the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education to issue guidelines on the proper use of Internet for students.

The request is embodied in a resolution filed by Board Member Jose Ribomapil Holganza Jr.

A separate resolution sponsored by Board Member Arleigh Jay Sitoy also called on the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate and charge the culprits in the spreading of the said sex video.

Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009 were enacted to safeguard the interests and rights of individuals against unauthorized intrusion into their privacy as well as other forms of exploitation, misuse or abuse.

“The youth, especially the students, who are still in their formative years should be made aware of the restrictions or prohibited acts which the aforesaid laws seek to regulate or punish,” Holganza said.

Holganza pointed out that under the principle of Parens Patriae, the DepEd and the CHED have the responsibility in disseminating these laws.

He said that the agencies should come up with general guidelines in the proper access of the Internet so that the students will be guided accordingly in their day to day activities using the medium of information and communication technology.

Sitoy also cited Republic Act 9262, the law protecting Violence Against Women and Children and guaranteeing their right to privacy.

“The video clip spread broadly unabated as a source of fun, unmindful of the victims’ shame and depression,” Sitoy said.

He is referring to the sex video of the private act by student-lovers that was proliferated on the Internet and various gadgets.

Holganza said that it is deemed appropriate for the DepEd and CHED particularly in Cebu to issue guidelines on the proper use of Internet to all students and pupils in their jurisdiction.  (FREEMAN)