PLDT and Smart are urging government agencies, technology companies, schools, families, and communities to work together to strengthen online safety for Filipino children as digital threats continue to affect both online and offline environments.
The call was highlighted during the “Safe Online Space Forum: Building Safer Online Spaces for Filipino Children and Families,” which brought together representatives from government, telecommunications, technology, education, media, and civil society to discuss digital safeguards, harmful online content, and policies to protect young users.
PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology Officer Menardo “Butch” G. Jimenez emphasized that protecting children online requires coordinated action rather than relying solely on telecommunications companies or government agencies.
“Our children are under attack. And the moment your child is under attack, that becomes priority one,” Jimenez said, calling for practical solutions that stakeholders can implement as online risks escalate.
The forum featured three panel discussions covering existing regulations and institutional responsibilities, harmful online content and digital threats, and ways families, schools, and communities can help children develop digital resilience.
Participants included representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd), Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), Philippine National Police (PNP), Converge ICT Solutions Inc., social media platforms, the esports sector, and child development organizations.
CICC Cybercrime Investigation Office Director Rojun V. Hosillos highlighted the importance of proactive cybercrime prevention and coordination with online platforms to address harmful content.
Meanwhile, national esports athlete Alexandre “AK” Laverez cautioned against automatically associating gaming and esports with harm, noting that the industry can also provide career opportunities, friendships, and other benefits.
Family life and child development specialist Dr. Tina Zamora underscored the importance of educating parents, supporting teachers, and engaging content creators who influence children. Bryanna Mariñas, founder and executive director of Violence Ends With Us, also called for children, young people, and survivors of violence to be included in developing solutions.
Jimenez stressed that technology and legislation must be complemented by parental guidance and the collective responsibility of stakeholders to protect young users.
The forum forms part of the PLDT Group’s broader efforts to promote safer digital environments and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16 on Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.
