Anti-OSAEC regulation tightened

A measure aimed at curbing child sexual abuse and exploitation on the Internet (OSAEC) has been proposed to the Lapu-Lapu Municipal Council.

Councilor Annabeth Cuizon said her proposed ordinance, titled the “Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (Osaec) Ordinance,” aims to combat the rise of online child sexual abuse while addressing the specific cultural context and local needs.

Cuizon said once national laws are in place, drafting a local ordinance will provide clear guidelines that meet the needs of the community and provide local government units with the necessary regulations.

“We have had no rescue incidents in Lapu-Lapu, and I want to make sure it stays that way. It is important to be aware that these problems exist,” Cuizon said on Friday, September 27, 2024, in a mix of Cebuano and English.

“Our goal is prevention. “We want to be proactive so that if something happens we are prepared and know how to respond effectively,” she added.

The proposed regulation is in accordance with national laws, in particular Republic Act (RA) 11930, also known as the Anti-Osaec and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act and RA 11862, or the Expanded Anti-Trafficking Act of 2022.

Institutionalized programs, guidelines

Under the proposed regulation, a multidisciplinary team consisting of a social worker, police officer or investigator and a licensed physician will facilitate the in-depth video interview of a child victim.

Cuizon said the main purpose of the recording is to prevent the survivor from having to repeatedly relive their experience during interviews.

She said this initiative prioritizes the child’s safety and well-being while maintaining confidentiality.

The Women and Children Interrogation Room of the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office Headquarters will serve as the location for the child-friendly safe room.

Other notable points of the draft regulation include the proposed mandatory creation and implementation of programs and services, such as counseling, free legal assistance, educational support, medical and psychological services, and livelihood training.

Sanctions

Under the proposed measure, violators will be fined between P3,000 and P5,000 and will be required to attend mandatory OSAEC seminars.

Those who commit a third offense face a prison sentence.

Companies that violate the regulation will face sanctions, including suspension of permits for the first and second violations and revocation of permits for the third.

Criminal offenses include accessing or distributing child sexual abuse material, grooming, livestreaming abuse and extortion.

Non-governmental organizations and the local children’s council were present at a public hearing on September 24.

The next meeting will involve the Lapu-Lapu City Association of Barangay Councils, and the final hearing will include police and stakeholders.

Cuizon aims to issue the Anti-OSAEC ordinance by November, in time for Children’s Month. / DPC