CICC warns platforms of geo-blocking over child protection lapses

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 24, 2026

Photo courtesy: Britannica/PNA

Digital platforms operating in the Philippines could face geo-blocking or suspension if they repeatedly fail to comply with child protection requirements, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) said on Sunday, August 23.

CICC Undersecretary Aboy Paraiso said such restrictions would come into play once a national framework for online child protection is in place, and would be directed at platforms that refuse to correct deficiencies or ignore lawful government directives.

“Our objective is compliance, not disruption. We will work with platforms that demonstrate a genuine willingness to comply. But deliberate or repeated refusal to meet lawful child protection requirements must have consequences,” Paraiso said.

Congress seeks stronger safeguards

Congress is moving to strengthen protections for minors against online grooming, radicalization, and exploitation.

Paraiso backed the initiative led by House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III, saying support from both the House and Senate shows the issue is a national concern.

Under the proposed framework, online platforms would be required to follow clear rules. Those that fail to comply could face sanctions, including restricted access or suspension when allowed by law.

School violence cases cited

Authorities cited recent school violence cases as part of the push for stronger online safeguards.

In Calamba, Laguna, police said they stopped an alleged school attack plot involving seven minors believed to have been groomed through an online gaming platform.

The Philippine National Police recorded at least 50 school violence incidents from June 16 to Aug. 19, including fatal shootings in Tacloban and Zamboanga.

Paraiso said the CICC is not blaming online games or social media themselves, but warned that predators and extremist groups can use these platforms to groom and radicalize minors.

Meanwhile, Paraiso said geo-blocking would only be considered if a platform repeatedly refuses to comply with government rules and directives.

He said platforms must follow child protection safeguards if they want continued access to Filipino users, regardless of their size.

“Once the guidelines are in place, platforms will know exactly what is expected of them. Those that want continued access to millions of Filipino users must accept the responsibilities that come with that access. Child protection cannot be treated as optional,” he said.

The national framework for online child protection has yet to be finalized, and it remains unclear when Congress is expected to pass the measures Speaker Dy and Senate counterparts have proposed.