The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), led by Secretary Rex Gatchalian, participated in the ASEAN ICT Forum 2026 on Child Online Protection held at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Taguig City on Wednesday, November 4.
The regional gathering brought together government officials, international organizations, child rights advocates, policy experts, and youth representatives to strengthen cooperation against online child exploitation and abuse.
Led by Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Fredderick Vida, the forum carried the theme “Stronger Safeguards, Stronger Voices: Advancing Collective Action Against Online Child Exploitation and Abuse.”
Discussions focused on emerging online threats affecting children, preventive measures, policy frameworks, and cross-border cooperation to address digital exploitation and abuse.
The event also provided a platform for ASEAN member states and partner organizations to exchange strategies and strengthen coordinated responses to online child protection challenges.
Among those who attended were ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC) Philippine Representative Elizabeth Aguiling-Pangalangan, UNICEF Representative to the Philippines Kyungsun Kim, Manila 2nd District Representative Rolando Valeriano, and International Justice Mission Philippines Country Director Samson Inocencio Jr.
Heads of delegation from ASEAN member countries also joined the discussions.
The DSWD’s participation highlighted its involvement in regional initiatives aimed at strengthening child protection and promoting safer digital environments for children.
The forum emphasized the importance of collaboration among governments, international organizations, civil society, and young people in addressing online child exploitation and abuse across Southeast Asia.
Photo Courtesy: MEM / DSWD
