DICT implements Grok ban in PH over online sexual abuse reports

Philippine Canadian Inquirer
January 16, 2026

(File Photo | Wikimedia Commons)

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has banned all access to Grok in the Philippines on Friday, January 16, due to reports of inappropriate uses, such as the generation of sexually explicit materials of minors.

The DICT Henry Aguda announced the move at the sidelines of a Globe-Starlink partnership deal held in Taguig City, saying that the restriction will only be lifted should xAI comply with Philippine laws by implementing corrective measures against online sexual abuse and exploitation of women and children.

The ban was implemented by the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) after ordering the National Telecommunications Technology (NTC), in accordance with Republic Act 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

“Mas pipiliin ko na pagsilbihan at protektahan ang ating mga kababayan kesa intindihin ho ang galit niya (Elon Musk),” said CICC Executive Director Aboy Paraiso. “Kapag nalinis naman niya (Elon Musk) ito at na ensure niya na wala ng mapipinsala at hindi ito magagamit sa pang aabuso madali rin naman I-unblock yan.”

(I’d rather serve and protect our countrymen instead of giving care to Elon Musk’s possible anger. When he cleans this mess with Grok, ensure that no one will be put into harm, nor will it won’t be used for abuse; the ban can be easily lifted.)