As we continue our fight against cybersex awareness, we recognize that not many Filipinos are aware of OSAEC (Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children). We make it our mission to spread the word in the most vulnerable communities to help save children from exploitation.
Last year, we held an OSAEC awareness lecture during the Parent Leaders’ Training in Pilar, Bataan. It was attended by 80 parent leaders from 4Ps (a poverty-reduction strategy implemented by the Philippine government.) Why parent leaders? Because we believe that the parents could help influence their neighbors, friends, and family members to join us in increasing awareness against OSAEC.
During the program, Jhemma, our social worker, discussed the basics of OSAEC and online safety: what it is, why it happens, examples, and serious negative implications for children. The parents were particularly disturbed by videos showing a rescue operation in Bataan, including one where a 2-year-old child was saved from abuse. It never crossed their mind that OSAEC is happening in their community and that anyone, even their children—could become a victim.
At the end of the program, the parents committed to being more vigilant. They also said they would educate their children about online safety, and report to them or any trusted adult in case they encounter suspected cases of abuse. They also thanked us for the session and encouraged us to continue spreading awareness so that more communities will be informed, especially as this issue becomes increasingly relevant.
Poverty is often cited as one of the major factors contributing to the rise of OSAEC. Many families in high-risk communities, such as those under the 4Ps program, constantly struggle to meet basic needs. This economic vulnerability makes children more susceptible to exploitation, and parents may fall prey to offers of money. To them, online sexual abuse seems harmless because the children won’t be “touched” by anyone—without understanding the real harm it may cause. Given the high risk of abuse in these communities, we will continue to reach them with our awareness campaign, educating them about online safety and empowering parents to protect their children from abuse and exploitation.
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