Toby Tiangco calls for more intensive government approach to online child abuse

By Billy Begas

House of Representatives Committee on Information and Communications Technology Chairman and Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco called on relevant national agencies to join President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s whole-of-government approach to combating online child sexual abuse and exploitation (OSAEC).

“President Bongbong Marcos’ directive is clear: the government must step up efforts to combat child abuse in digital spaces. The Philippines continues to be a hotspot for child sexual exploitation and like the President, I find the statistics — 1 in 100 Filipinos are affected — very alarming. We cannot allow these numbers to persist,” Tiangco said.

“The President has made it his personal mission to address this urgent problem, and it is essential that all government agencies unite to put an end to online child abuse. Collective action is critical to safeguarding the future of our youth,” he added.

The House of Representatives IT chief also stressed that government agencies must be flexible in their response as digital spaces continue to evolve, providing criminals with new ways to evade detection and exploit vulnerable individuals.

“Hindi has done an update to make cyberspace a reality and help make it a reality,” he said.

“The core of public service is our undying hope that we can build a country that nurtures and protects our children. If we allow crimes like online child abuse to continue and deprive our children of a happy childhood and even a bright future, we are failing in our promise as public servants,” Tiangco added.

Tiangco said the creation of the Presidential Office for Child Protection by Marcos is a clear call for action to address the pressing issue of child protection.

“We expect agencies to accelerate programs that will further enhance the capabilities of law enforcement, local government agencies, and even social services personnel to prevent and prosecute those involved in online child abuse,” he added.

He also expressed shock at how the increase in these heinous crimes is generating billions.

“In 2022 alone, the Anti-Money Laundering Council has flagged transactions worth 1.5 billion pesos suspected of being linked to online sexual abuse,” he said.

“By adopting a whole-of-government approach, we can expect robust implementation of existing laws including Republic Act 11930 (the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children Act) and the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022,” Tiangco added.