PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications are expanding community-based online safety education through Project SCROL, a partnership with Terre des Hommes Netherlands and Bidlisiw Foundation, Inc. focused on child protection and digital resilience.
The initiative recently brought online safety lessons to students, teachers, and parents through the Pista sa Kaalam (Festival of Knowledge) Cyber-Caravan at the University of San Carlos Main Campus.
Participants learned practical ways to use social media responsibly, identify online risks, and protect themselves from digital threats. The sessions also emphasized how safer online behavior can help prevent harm and reduce the risks of online exploitation.
Technology and child protection
PLDT and Smart said meaningful digital inclusion goes beyond providing connectivity. Communities also need the knowledge and skills to navigate digital platforms safely, particularly as children increasingly use the internet for education, communication, and entertainment.
The PLDT Group is also supporting broader efforts against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) through its #KonektedforSaferInternet campaign. Its Child Protection Platform uses technology and global monitoring tools to help detect and block access to online content associated with child sexual abuse and exploitation.
PLDT Home supported the Project SCROL activities by providing connectivity for the learning sessions, allowing participants to access digital educational materials and take part in interactive activities.
“Technology can be a powerful tool for learning and empowerment, but communities also need the knowledge to navigate the online world safely,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Stakeholder Engagement Head at PLDT and Smart.
Bidlisiw Foundation Executive Director Pamela Uy said collaboration is essential to keeping children safe online, particularly by giving parents, educators, and young people access to practical information and resources.
The partnership highlights the growing role of telecommunications companies in combining connectivity, digital literacy, and technology-based child protection to promote safer online experiences for Filipino children.
