BATA:Ang pag-asa ng bayan, wag ipagtabuyan

The theme “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!” feels heavy yet necessary, especially now when so much of children’s lives happen online. It reminds us that behind every case of online exploitation is a real child whose dignity and innocence are being stolen. The
theme pushes us to finally confront the reality that abuse in the digital world is just as damaging as abuse in the physical world—sometimes even worse, because the images never truly disappear. It’s a wake-up call for society to stop treating online threats as invisible or harmless.

I appreciate that the government has been strengthening child protection, especially with the passing of Republic Act 11930 or the Anti-OSAEC Law, which directly targets online sexual exploitation. Agencies like the DSWD, DOJ, DICT, and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking have been working together to track cases, improve reporting mechanisms, and support rescued victims. The Child Protection Compact Partnership between the Philippines and the U.S. also shows that the issue is being taken seriously at both national and international levels. These actions signal that the government recognizes the complexity of online exploitation and is trying to adapt to fast-changing digital dangers.

Still, enforcement remains a challenge. Online exploitation thrives in communities affected by poverty, lack of awareness, and limited digital literacy. Even if laws exist, many families do not understand how
OSAEC operates—sometimes even happening inside households pressured by financial struggles. This shows that protecting children goes beyond passing laws; it requires stronger implementation, community education, and more trained local officers who can respond quickly. Ending OSAEC means working on prevention, strengthening families, and supporting survivors—not just punishing offenders.

Overall, the celebration of National Children’s Month serves as a reminder that child protection is a shared responsibility. The government may build systems and create laws, but communities, schools, and families must also be actively involved. Children deserve to grow in a world—both offline and
online—where their safety and dignity are defended. Fighting for their rights is not just an annual theme; it is a long-term commitment we owe to every Filipino child.

References:

Republic Act 11930 – Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children Act: https://pcw.gov.ph/republic-act-11930/

DSWD on Child Protection Programs: https://www.dswd.gov.ph

Department of Justice – Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT): https://iacat.gov.ph

UNICEF Philippines – Online Child Protection Reports: https://www.unicef.org/philippines

Child Protection Compact Partnership (Philippines–US): https://www.state.gov/child-protection-compact-partnerships/

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