DICT, UNICEF, telcos sector coordinate to spread correct info on COVID-19

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is working with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the telecommunications sector to provide correct information on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and prevent sexual abuse and exploitation of children online while people are forced to stay at home because of the pandemic.

In response to UNICEF’s call to collaborate, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), an attached agency of the DICT, is coordinating a text blast in an effort to ensure the security of parents and children.

The text blast will run from April 7 to April 9, according to the DICT. The texts encourage subscribers to visit unicef.ph and saferkidsph.org, which contain information on COVID-19 and tips on how to support parents and children in managing the impact of the pandemic.

Unicef.ph, UNICEF Philippines’ official website, contains various programs, research and reports on issues affecting Filipino children, stories of beneficiaries, as well as volunteer opportunities. It also currently includes updates and news on COVID-19, UNICEF’s initiatives on helping children affected by the crisis, as well as advice for families on coping with the current situation.

Saferkidsph.org, meanwhile, provides information on how to reduce and prevent sexual abuse and exploitation of children. It is an initiative of UNICEF, the Australian Embassy, Save the Children, and The Asia Foundation.

The move comes as the pandemic has left many Filipinos relying on the internet for information and entertainment while they suffer from the economic strain due to the slowdown of industry and labor. These have made parents and children become more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse both online and offline, UNICEF said in a letter to the NTC.

“The DICT appreciates the proactive stance of UNICEF. From our side, we assure them and the public, in general, that DICT will continue to perform its cybersecurity duties to ensure the safety of all Filipinos, especially our children, amidst this crisis,” he added.

/MUF