PLDT and Smart join forces with tech giants to lock down digital security for Filipino kids

PLDT and Smart team up with TikTok, DepEd, and experts to boost digital security and create safer online spaces for Filipino kids.

Representatives from PLDT, the Senate, DepEd, PNP, and CICC

A multi-sector alliance for total Digital Security

In a significant effort to enhance digital security for young internet users, telecommunications leader PLDT and Smart Communications are collaborating with key technology platforms, government officials, and community advocates across the Philippines.

This joint initiative arises in response to the increasing instances of school-related violence and harmful online trends that show how physical threats to children can quickly translate into social media and digital channels.

To address these evolving digital security risks, PLDT and Smart organized the 'Safe Online Space Forum: Building Safer Online Spaces for Filipino Children and Families.' This landmark event brought together representatives from platforms like TikTok, prominent tech companies, major government agencies, educators, and parent groups to build a stronger defense network for Filipino youth.

Leaders from PLDT and Smart emphasized that technical network controls alone cannot fully eliminate digital risks. Achieving true digital security requires active cooperation among platforms, regulators, schools, and families.

Menardo 'Butch' G. Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer

"While we have done everything a network can do on our own, we acknowledge that no single entity can tackle this challenge alone. Our role as PLDT is to utilize our network and reach to help mitigate these digital risks and gather diverse perspectives to establish clear priorities and practical recommendations for the future." — Menardo G. Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer.

Three Key Pillars for Keeping Filipino Children Safe:

1. Strengthening Policies and Safeguards - Led by Roby Alampay, head of public engagement at PLDT and Smart, this panel unites lawmakers and law enforcement, including the Senate, the Department of Education (DepEd), the Philippine National Police, and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), to create stricter safety regulations and network protections.

2. Blocking Harmful Content and Viral Trends - Moderated by Gian Lao, deputy head of public engagement at PLDT and Smart, this group collaborates directly with social media giants like TikTok and online gaming communities to prevent the spread of toxic content and improve response times during online safety incidents.

3. Empowering Families and Schools - Led by Atty. Joan De Venecia-Fabul, PLDT Chief Legal Counsel, this effort focuses on helping parents and teachers build children’s digital resilience while connecting affected youth with mental health support through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and child psychologists.

This security initiative builds upon PLDT's ongoing efforts through PROTECTA Pilipinas, a national multi-stakeholder alliance committed to protecting critical infrastructure and safeguarding citizens against cyber exploitation.

These collaborative initiatives align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), by promoting safer digital spaces and establishing collaborative protection networks for children nationwide. 

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