DSWD highlights agency drive vs. child online risks at ASEAN ICT Forum 2026

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian reaffirmed the agency's commitment to protecting children from online risks during the ASEAN ICT Forum 2026 on Child Online Protection held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel on Wednesday.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) hosted the event, themed “Stronger Safeguards, Stronger Voices: Advancing Collective Action Against Online Child Exploitation and Abuse,” to foster stronger partnerships across Southeast Asia amid the growing threats posed by digital technology to children and other vulnerable groups.

“The same technology exposes our citizens, especially our children and youth, to online risk and harm. The increased incidence of online sexual abuse and exploitation reveals the need to consider measures in promoting child online protection, requiring action from child support systems in a fast-paced environment,” Gatchalian said in his message to forum delegates and child protection advocates.

“Striking a balance between the pros and the cons of the use of digital platforms is a challenge we must collectively navigate,” he added.

The ASEAN Regional Plan of Action for the Protection of Children from All Forms of Online Exploitation and Abuse 2026–2030 outlines priority actions across seven focus areas, including policy development, capacity building, child protection, monitoring, and awareness, to address evolving digital threats.

Efforts on child online protection

The DSWD said it continues to implement targeted anti-exploitation initiatives nationwide, particularly through Project SAFE against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), to ensure comprehensive interventions at all stages of survivor care.

“At the national level, the Department pursues the same efforts through Project SAFE against OSAEC. We are able to provide a holistic intervention model focused on prevention, protection, healing, family empowerment, safe reintegration, and the prevention of re-victimization,” Gatchalian said.

Gatchalian also highlighted the agency's residential care facilities and specialized centers, which provide rehabilitation and support for the long-term recovery of victim-survivors.

The DSWD Chief said the agency underscored the responsibility of governments, the private sector, civil society, communities, and families.

"Do not stop at saving child victims. Our role continues until they are able to be in a safe, facilitated, and enabling environment,” Gatchalian said.