Students urges gov’t to protect kids from online sexual abuse, exploitation

MANILA, Philippines — Citing the country’s ranking as the number one hotspot of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, an organization composed of students urged the government to work together in implementing the law that protects children from abuse.

The Association of Youth Child Rights Advocates of Davao City (ACAD) expressed hope that digital technology would be used to create a safer and more supportive cyber world for everyone, especially children.

READ: Over 900,00 websites showing online child abuse blocked in 2023 — CWC

“ACAD is more than just a group of youth—we are a family. Save the Children provided a platform for us to learn from other young people who are passionate about protecting children and are willing to volunteer their time and skills to advocate for children’s rights. As cliché as it may sound, ACAD is the voice of the voiceless,” said Erica, an ACAD youth member and child rights advocate, in a statement on Saturday.

ACAD is one of the youth groups organized by Save the Children Philippines.

Save the Children Philippines, meanwhile, also mentioned that their group advocated for the passage of Republic Act 11930 or the Anti-OSSEC-CASE Law in 2022, as well as its implementing rules and regulations in 2023.

“The enactment of the Anti-OSAEC-CSAEM Law is a step towards stronger advocacy for child protection from all forms of violence,” said Save the Children Philippines chief executive officer Atty. Alberto Muyot.

“We call on the government and all sectors of society to work together in fully implementing the law to strengthen protective and legal services and to ensure that children are safe from OSAEC-CSAEM at all costs,” he added.