By Wilnard Bacelonia
MANILA – Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros is mulling an inquiry into new online sexual exploitation of children (OSAEC) trends and to evaluate compliance of internet platforms, e-wallet services, and remittance centers in preventing such crimes.
This, after the senator was informed about the case of a 10-month-old infant subjected to online sexual abuse and exploitation.
“Panagutin natin kung kinakailangan ang mga internet service providers, e-wallets, o remittance centers na maaaring naging bahagi ng paglago nitong OSAEC (We will hold internet service providers, e-wallets, and remittance centers accountable if they are proven to have taken part in the rise of OSAEC),” Hontiveros said in a statement on Monday.
Hontiveros said the case is a horrifying reminder on the urgent need for stronger enforcement of laws against cybercrime targeting children, such as the Anti-OSAEC Law.
She raised concerns over how social media platforms continue to be used to facilitate heinous crimes, despite the law mandating stricter responsibilities on digital platforms.
“As the author of the law, I am disappointed that its implementation does not seem to proactively protect children from this unspeakable violence. I cannot help but think that we are not doing enough,” she said.
In the case of the 10-month-old victim, Hontiveros commended the National Bureau of Investigation Human Trafficking Division for arresting the suspect, as well as the National Coordination Center Against OSAEC for closely monitoring the case.
Hontiveros underscored the need for a whole-of-nation approach in addressing the complex and deeply troubling issue, emphasizing that children should never be for sale. (PNA)
