Supreme Court Strengthens Commitment to Online Sexual Abuse
The Supreme Court (SC) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to protect children from online sexual abuse and exploitation (OSAEC). Through judicial reforms and strategic partnerships, the court aims to create a safer digital and legal environment for Filipino children. This pledge was emphasized by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo during the recent SaferKidsPH event held in Makati City.
“We will continue to hold the door open to a better tomorrow for every Filipino child,” Gesmundo declared, underscoring the SC’s dedication to the cause. SaferKidsPH is an initiative funded by the Australian government and implemented through a consortium including UNICEF, The Asia Foundation, and Save the Children Philippines.
Judicial Reforms to Protect Children
According to sources, Chief Justice Gesmundo highlighted the SC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the judicial framework protecting children. The court has issued the Implementing Rules and Regulations for the Social Aspects of the Family Courts Act, guiding courts to handle child-related cases with greater sensitivity and efficiency.
The SC also published the Bench Book for Family Courts, providing judges with a detailed resource to make decisions centered on the child’s best interests. Recently, the court approved the Rule on Family Mediation, which promotes restorative justice and helps maintain family unity.
Moreover, the SC has institutionalized Victim-Sensitive Guidelines through the Justice Sector Coordinating Council. These guidelines aim to protect victims, especially children, from further trauma while ensuring early access to social services.
“The Guidelines provide a more systematic access to social services by the victims as soon as their needs arise, even pre-litigation,” Gesmundo explained.
Innovative Programs and Justice Zones
The Chief Justice also announced the establishment of the first Anti-OSAEC TriCity Justice Zone in Cagayan de Oro, Ozamis, and Iligan cities. This zone focuses on addressing the urgent and widespread problem of online sexual abuse in the Philippines. A second zone is set to launch soon in Region VIII. Earlier, an Anti-Human Trafficking Justice Zone was established in Zamboanga City.
These judicial efforts align with the Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 (SPJI), which prioritizes accessible, efficient, and inclusive justice. A key element of this plan is improving judicial processes for vulnerable groups, particularly children, through technology and innovative practices.
The SPJI adopts digital tools to streamline case management and ensure faster resolutions for cases involving vulnerable children.
Collective Resolve to Protect Filipino Children
Despite these reforms, Chief Justice Gesmundo acknowledged that the journey is not yet complete. “As we celebrate these achievements, we recognize that our work is far from complete. The event today, involving the Department of Justice, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Council for the Welfare of Children, among other organizations, symbolizes our collective resolve to sustain and expand the impact of SaferKidsPH,” he stressed.
Describing SaferKidsPH as a “beacon of hope” in the fight against OSAEC, Gesmundo urged continued efforts to ensure that “every Filipino child grows up in a world where their safety, dignity, and potential are protected.”
Joining the Chief Justice were representatives from various government agencies, international organizations, and child protection advocates. The event, titled Pagdiriwang ng mga Tagumpay ng SaferKidsPH, gathered national and local leaders, civil society members, youth leaders, and private sector partners.
It celebrated the six-year journey of SaferKidsPH toward building a safer and more secure future for all children in the Philippines.
For more news and updates on online sexual abuse and exploitation, visit Filipinokami.com.