- The government is collaborating with financial and social media platforms to curb online child abuse.
- Authorities seek to adjust anti-money laundering regulations to monitor small transactions linked to exploitation.
- Efforts include AI-driven detection, financial tracking, and an intensified crackdown on cyber predators.
The Philippine government is intensifying its efforts to combat online child sexual exploitation through strategic collaborations with financial service providers and social media platforms.
Recognizing that existing anti-money laundering laws may not cover low-value but frequent transactions, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is pushing for policy adjustments.
Government Cracks Down on Online Child Exploitation
With the rise of online sexual exploitation of children, the Philippine government is taking decisive action by strengthening financial oversight and enhancing digital security measures. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla reaffirmed the government’s commitment to an all-out war against cyber predators, emphasizing ongoing collaborations with various sectors to eliminate online child abuse networks.
A key strategy involves monitoring financial transactions, as perpetrators often use small amounts—sometimes as low as PHP 50—to access exploitative content. The DOJ is working closely with money service businesses and digital payment platforms to track suspicious activity that might evade traditional anti-money laundering laws.
In addition to financial monitoring, authorities are working with social media companies to improve automated detection and content moderation. Platforms like Meta and TikTok are actively participating in discussions to refine AI-based systems that identify and remove harmful content before it spreads.
The National Coordination Center Against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (NCC-OSAEC-CSAEM) plays a central role in leading these initiatives. By strengthening partnerships with public and private entities, the government aims to create a more secure online space for Filipino children.
Protecting children in the digital age requires continuous adaptation and collaboration. By enhancing financial scrutiny and leveraging technology, the Philippine government is taking critical steps to dismantle online exploitation networks and ensure a safer internet for future generations.
“The true character of a society is revealed in how it treats its children.” — Nelson Mandela
