Forum Highlights Rising Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and Ateneo de Manila University’s Office for Social Concern and Involvement (OSCI-ADMU) convened a vital forum on Monday, June 16, focusing on the alarming increase in Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) in the Philippines. This forum, named Solidarity for Child Protection, aimed to raise awareness and foster cooperation among various sectors to combat this growing crisis.
According to reports shared during the event, the Philippines has become a global hub for producing child sexual abuse material. Figures revealed that OSAEC cases surged dramatically from 1,297,000 in 2020 to 2,740,905 in 2023. These statistics were drawn from a comprehensive report published by a respected child rights organization earlier this year. The report also included key findings and recommendations to address the issue effectively.
Impact of Displacement on Vulnerable Children
The forum also highlighted a disturbing related trend: UNICEF’s data showed that 9.7 million Filipino children faced displacement in 2023 due to disasters and conflict. This is the highest number of child displacements worldwide, underscoring the urgency for stronger child protection policies. The challenges these displaced children face make them even more vulnerable to exploitation, emphasizing the need for coordinated action among government agencies, civil society, academic institutions, and the media.
Collaborative Efforts to Strengthen Child Protection
CHR Commissioner Beda A. Epres, the focal commissioner for Child Rights, led the discussions. He was joined by Mary Joyce M. Crisanto, Director of the CHR Human Rights Policy Centers Office; Ma. Victoria Diaz, Officer-in-Charge of the Child Rights Center; and Ophalle R. Alzona, Director of OSCI-ADMU. Together, they underscored the CHR’s unwavering commitment to safeguard children’s rights as the nation’s Children’s Ombud and sole human rights institution.
“Bilang tagapagtanggol ng mga karapatan ng mga bata, nananatili ang CHR sa pangakong protektahan at itaguyod ang kanilang mga karapatan,” the CHR emphasized.
This forum not only raised awareness but also encouraged stronger partnerships and strategic interventions to combat Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children. It calls for a united front to protect Filipino children from these grave threats.
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