MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. made an impassioned appeal for more robust efforts to combat the Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) during the “Iisang Nasyon, Iisang Aksyon: Tapusin ang OSAEC Ngayon Summit 2024” held in Makati City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the government and public must do more to eradicate online child exploitation, describing it as a grave issue that brings shame to the country. In his speech, Marcos became emotional after hearing the story of an OSAEC victim, stressing the need for stronger collective action. He acknowledged the efforts of the Department of Justice, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the International Justice Mission, but emphasized that more needs to be done to protect the country’s children. Under his “Bagong Pilipinas” initiative, Marcos vowed to pursue those responsible for OSAEC and ensure justice for victims. Data from the Philippine National Police reveals that 1,099 victims were rescued in 237 operations, resulting in 138 arrests and 41 convictions.