MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday directed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into reports that some students have been selling lewd photos and videos online to support and sustain their distance education.
In his order, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra asked NBI officer-in-charge Eric Distor to conduct an investigation into the alleged sale of sensual photographs, videos, or pornography of students.
The NBI was also instructed to file charges, if evidence warrants, against persons involved in any unlawful acts connected with the sale of lewd photos and videos.
The NBI was given 10 days to submit a progress report on the matter and provide updates periodically afterward.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian sounded the alarm over the alleged online sexual exploitation of children, calling on law enforcers to ramp up efforts in probing the illicit activity.
School Year 2020-2021 opened last October and utilizes distance learning — a combination of online and modular learning — as campuses stay closed and physical classes remain suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.