Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 9) — As cases of online child sexual exploitation increase, a group is urging parents to play a more active role in guiding their children when it comes to using the internet.
ECPAT Philippines information officer Jenna Serrano told CNN Philippines that it is important for parents to educate their children about the dangers of using the internet and how they can be prevented.
“Ang pinakamabisa ay ‘yung maayos, mahinahon na pakikipag-usap sa anak kung ano ba ‘yung kanilang activities online,” she said, while also emphasizing the need for their children to receive all the support so that they will be open and willing to share what they are experiencing.
[Translation: The most effective way is to talk to your children in a proper and calm way to know what their online activities are.]
ECPAT Philippines is a non-government organization that is part of a global network which aims to eliminate all forms of sexual exploitation of children, like child prostitution, child sex trafficking, online sexual abuse and exploitation.
Serrano said reports related to online sexual abuse on children increased during the pandemic, based on a survey they conducted from May to June 2020. Many children also receive unsolicited sexual messages through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tiktok, and online gaming sites.
To speed up response, the group launched an international hotline called E-Protect Kids. This is connected to 46 hotlines worldwide to ensure faster response once a potential online child abuse is reported.
Serrano said the system can also preserve information needed that can be forwarded to authorities for investigation.
To report possible cases of online child abuse, just send the link to http://ecpat.org.ph/report/ or to report@ecpat.org.ph.
