Belmonte to QC parents: guard kids vs child pornography
In line with Quezon City’s advocacy to create a safe environment for children, Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte called on parents to take an active role in guarding children against child pornography. Speaking to residents benefiting from the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program on Thursday, Belmonte asked parents to be aware and critical of cybercrime acts that could be happening close to home. One reason for the increasing cases of child pornography and cybercrime in the city, she pointed out, is the failure of families to realize the full impact on children of engaging in pornographic acts. Belmonte pointed out that stings by city police have discovered internet cafes and call center employing minors in cybersex crimes. While the city is doing its best to rid these cybersex dens, said Belmonte, the participation of parents and families will be crucial in stamping out child pornography. As presiding officer of the city council, Belmonte led in passing an ordinance in 2012 that mandates internet shop operators to block illegal and pornographic websites, report possible illegal activities done by users in their cafes, and enforce methods to prevent children from engaging with potential online predators. The United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) has repeatedly reported that the Philippines remains a top global source for child pornography, with eight out of 10 children at risk of online sexual abuse and bullying. Cyber sexual abuse, said Unicef, can often lead to the prostitution of minors.
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