PLDT Home and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) supported the Basic Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Training for law enforcement officers in Cebu, organized by International Justice Mission Philippines (IJM) and Bidlisiw Foundation Inc. – Philippines.
“Over the years, PLDT and Smart have been steadfast partners of IJM and Bidlisiw to help end online child exploitation in the country. We’ve provided not only connectivity and technological support, but also expertise in data handling crucial for investigations. With this, we’re investing in a safer digital future for Filipino children,” said Marylou Gocotano, PLDT and Smart Stakeholder Management-Visayas Relations Head.
The training is being attended by Women and Children Desk and Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) who are designated first-responders on OSAEC cases.
The training is part of Project SCROL (Safety for Children and their Rights OnLine), which aims to safeguard children and strengthen law enforcement capabilities against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) in Central Visayas. This was attended by Women and Children Desk and Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) , who are often first responders.
"Online sexual exploitation of children happens all over the country; however, underreporting in the communities poses a huge challenge. Training local law enforcers will help create a strong referral-response mechanism at the local level, with support from other stakeholders. The Basic ICAC training will empower local law enforcers to respond effectively to reports from the community. Knowing we have well-trained and well-equipped law enforcers will, in turn, encourage more community members to report," said Atty. Lucille Dejito, Director of IJM-Cebu Philippines.
Smart Communications, Inc.’s Senior Manager for Regulatory Affairs, Anthony Fernandez, discusses the necessary process law enforcement should take to request data from Smart when investigating OSAEC-related cases.
Smart provided vital insights on the necessary process law enforcement should take to request data from their organization when investigating OSAEC cases. This knowledge empowers officers to gather crucial evidence.
PLDT Home also provided high-speed internet connectivity during the training event. This allowed participants to analyze a live OSAEC case in real-time, ensuring an immersive and effective learning experience.
These efforts by PLDT Home and Smart form part of the much broader goal of parent company PLDT to help the Philippines attain the UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 16 which promotes just, peaceful and inclusive societies including the end to abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children. Empowering law enforcement to protecting children from online exploitation aligns with the global vision for sustainable development and child safeguarding.
