LGUs told to conduct ‘Internet patrols’ on cyber dens

LOCAL government units in Cebu province were urged to do their own “Internet patrol” to monitor local websites engaged in cyber prostitution in their area.

In a resolution, Provincial Board (PB) Member Arleigh Sitoy said an online watch on prostitution especially those involving minors will complement the Capitol’s efforts to crack down on cyber pornography dens in the province.

The resolution also voiced its condemnation on the “bestial and irresponsible act of parents who allow their children to perform lewd acts in front of local and foreign customers.”

Sitoy quoted Justice Asst. Secretary Geronimo Sy who said an online version of the “barangay patrols” concept should be implemented.

He said the “Internet patrol” can be used to mobilize public support and cooperation in guarding their community against websites engaged in online prostitution.

The Child and Youth Welfare Code under Presidential Decree 603 reiterates the importance of children as the most important assets of the nation and every effort should be exerted to promote their welfare for a useful and happy life.

PB member and Acting Vice Gov. Julian Daan said poverty is not an excuse for parents to force their children to engage in online sexual acts.

He said there has been a serious distortion of the values of children whose parents were arrested in a raid by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in their home at barangay Ibabao, Cordova town, last month.

That was the second raid in the same community. The first one happened a year ago in July.

On April this year, a 46-year-old Australian was also arrested in barangay Labangon for alleged operating a  cyberpornography den and trafficking of women and minors.

Daan said it is the policy of the state to protect every child from all forms of exploitation and abuse including pornographic performances.

“In the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) evaluation, the victim’s moral values are distorted and they could not distinguish what is right from wrong,” Daan said. Correspondent Peter L. Romanillos