The Department of Information and Communications Technology said Thursday it accepts the House of Representatives’ decision to defer deliberations on its proposed budget while concerns involving Meta remain unresolved.
The DICT said it respects the House’s oversight function and supports efforts to strengthen accountability among technology platforms, particularly on issues involving online sexual abuse and exploitation of children and child sexual abuse and exploitation materials.
The agency said Meta has yet to meet what it considers sufficient standards in cooperating with authorities and implementing safeguards for young users. It contrasted this with other technology companies that, according to the DICT, have shown greater cooperation on online safety concerns.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the department would comply with the House’s decision as lawmakers examine concerns involving child protection on major digital platforms.
The agency also cited other online risks affecting children and young adults, including illegal gambling, cyberbullying and harmful patterns of social media use.
The DICT said large technology companies operating in the Philippines should implement measurable safety safeguards, promptly remove unlawful or harmful content when required, and cooperate transparently with Philippine authorities.
It added that it will continue working with Congress, law enforcement agencies, child protection groups and technology companies to strengthen online safeguards for Filipino children.
