Sen. Risa Hontiveros on Monday said there is a need for stronger regulations and accountability from internet service providers, e-wallet services, and remittance centers to help curb these crimes.

The lawmaker said that social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp continue to be used for child exploitation despite existing safeguards.

“Nakakagimbal. Bilang nanay, ang sakit sa puso malamang may musmos na inabuso’t inalipusta kapalit ng pera,” she said.

She commended the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Human Trafficking Division for apprehending a suspect and acknowledged the role of the National Coordination Center Against OSAEC. 

However, she said that enforcement efforts need to be more proactive.

“I am disappointed that the implementation of the measure does not seem to proactively protect children from this unspeakable violence. I cannot help but think that we are not doing enough,” Hontiveros said.

The senator urged social media companies to enhance their monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to prevent the continued exploitation of children online.

“Muli akong nananawagan sa mga social media companies na paigtingin ang kanilang mga regulasyon. Hindi na nga matugunan ang fake news, hindi pa maprotektahan ang ating mga anak,” she said.

Through a Senate resolution, Hontiveros seeks to investigate emerging trends in OSAEC, including the role of financial platforms in facilitating these crimes.

“Panagutin natin kung kinakailangan ang mga internet service providers, ang mga e-wallet, o ang mga remittance center na maaaring naging bahagi ng paglago nitong OSAEC,” she said.

She also noted the need for a whole-of-nation approach to strengthen protections against OSAEC, emphasizing that safeguarding children from exploitation must remain a priority.

PNP Chief General Rommel Marbil reported that since the enactment of the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children Law in 2022, the Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC), has conducted 307 operations. 

These operations have led to the rescue of 636 victims, the arrest of 167 suspects, the filing of 218 cases, and 12 convictions as of 2024, it said.