On February 11, people worldwide united to celebrate Safer Internet Day (SID), and in the Philippines, this global movement showcased a strong commitment to fight against online child exploitation. Stairway Foundation Inc. (SFI), in collaboration with the Department of Education Learner Rights and Protection Office (DepEd LRPO), the National Coordination Center Against Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (NCC-OSAEC-CSAEM), the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), spearheaded Safer Internet Day Philippines 2025 (SIDPH 2025) under the theme “Digital Bayanihan: Para Sa Kabataang Ligtas at Protektado Online.”
The Growing Threat of Online Exploitation
Online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) is a rising concern in the Philippines, which global experts have identified as a hotspot for online child exploitation. According to the 2023 International Justice Mission (IJM) report, the Philippines accounted for nearly 20% of global OSAEC cases. The Department of Justice (DOJ) also reported a 264% increase in cyber tip reports related to child exploitation between 2019 and 2022. The ease of internet access, lack of digital literacy, and economic vulnerabilities continue to put children at risk.
Advocating for Child Protection in the Digital Space
As part of its ongoing advocacy for Republic Act 11930 (Anti-OSAEC and CSAEM Act of 2022), SFI launched a series of educational videos that shed light on OSAEC and child sexual abuse and exploitation materials (CSAEM). These videos explored evolving digital risks and the vital role of duty-bearers in child protection. One of these videos was also featured in NCC-OSAEC-CSAEM’s SIDPH 2025 campaign, further amplifying its reach and impact.
Engaging Communities Through Webinars and Live Discussions
SFI actively participated in live discussions and webinars hosted by NCC-OSAEC-CSAEM and DepEd LRPO on February 11 and 21, 2025. These sessions focused on digital wellness, strengthening child protection systems, and equipping stakeholders with strategies to safeguard children in online spaces. Social media analytics shows these events garnered over 3,000 engagements, demonstrating a growing public interest in digital safety.
Nationwide Integration of Anti-OSAEC and CSAEM Education
Beyond online discussions, the Department of Education plans to roll out a nationwide Anti-OSAEC and CSAEM classroom-based education program for students. This initiative aims to empower learners with essential digital safety knowledge, helping them recognize online threats and respond effectively.
Empowering Local Government Child Protection Actors
In addition to its public advocacy campaigns, SFI collaborated with CWC and DILG to strengthen the capacities of child protection actors at the local government level. Through the RA 11930: The Anti-OSAEC and CSAEM Law e-learning course, SFI provided LGU representatives and Local Councils for the Protection of Children (LCPCs) with the necessary tools to understand the key provisions of RA 11930, recognize its importance, and embrace shared responsibility in combating online child exploitation. This course ran from February 11 to 28, 2025, equipping local leaders with actionable knowledge to protect vulnerable children in their communities.
Moving Forward: A Collective Commitment to Digital Safety
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like SIDPH 2025 underscore the power of collaboration in safeguarding children from online risks. Through education, awareness, and collective action, stakeholders can build a safer and more secure digital environment for future generations.