SC renews push to protect children from digital exploitation

Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo reaffirmed the judiciary's commitment to protecting children from online sexual abuse and exploitation (OSAEC), emphasizing key judicial reforms and partnerships aimed at building a safer digital and legal environment for Filipino children.

Gesmundo delivered his message during his keynote speech at the SaferKidsPH Culminating Event on 3 June 2025, held at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City.

The Chief Justice underscored the Supreme Court’s active role in the fight against OSAEC, particularly through its collaboration with SaferKidsPH — an initiative of the Australian Government implemented by a consortium led by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), The Asia Foundation, and Save the Children Philippines.

Calling SaferKidsPH a “beacon of hope,” Gesmundo urged sustained efforts to ensure “every Filipino child grows up in a world where their safety, dignity, and potential are protected.”

He added that the Supreme Court “will continue to hold the door open to a better tomorrow for every Filipino child,” emphasizing the judiciary’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding children from harm both online and offline.

This as the Supreme Court remains steadfast in its commitment to this cause, collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure that every child is protected from harm, both in the digital realm and beyond.”

Gesmundo highlighted the Court’s reforms to enhance child protection within the judicial system. Among these is the issuance of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Social Aspects of the Family Courts Act, which guides courts in handling child-related cases with greater sensitivity and efficiency.

He also cited the publication of the Bench Book for Family Courts, a comprehensive reference to assist judges in making child-centered decisions. The Supreme Court En Banc recently approved the Rule on Family Mediation, aimed at promoting restorative justice and strengthening family unity.

In addition, the Supreme Court, through the Justice Sector Coordinating Council, has institutionalized the Victim-Sensitive Guidelines to prevent further trauma to victims—particularly children—and ensure their early access to social services.

“These guidelines provide a more systematic means for victims to access social services as soon as their needs arise, even before litigation begins,” Gesmundo said.