Stronger action sought vs online child abuse

MANILA, Philippines — Stronger enforcement of laws against online child abuse must be implemented as the country has become a major global source of child sexual abuse material, according to CitizenWatch Philippines.
“We cannot allow the internet to be weaponized against children. Tighter regulation of digital platforms, stronger international cooperation to dismantle crime rings and intensified efforts to educate parents and children are necessary,” the group’s co-convenor Kit Belmonte said on Wednesday.
Over 500,000 minors in the Philippines have fallen victims to online child abuse, the International Justice Mission reported.
Actual figures could be higher due to underreporting and lack of awareness, Belmonte noted.
While telecommunication firms, internet providers and technology companies such as PLDT, Globe and Google have made strides in blocking illegal content online, Belmonte said more must be done.
“Parents should be the first line of defense. Schools must integrate digital literacy into curricula. Tech companies must continuously refine their safeguards. Every citizen must refuse to turn a blind eye,” Belmonte said.
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