THE Cebu City Government has established an inter-agency action force to intensify efforts against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (Osaec) and introduced an ordinance prohibiting Osaec and child sexual abuse or exploitation materials (CSAEM).
Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia signed an executive order on Monday, March 17, 2025, creating the Cebu City Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking and Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (CCIACT-Osaec).
The council will coordinate with local government units, law enforcement agencies, social welfare offices and community organizations to address the growing concern of child exploitation facilitated by technology.
Under the order, CCIACT-Osaec will be chaired by the mayor and will include representatives from various city departments, the police, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and community groups.
Duties
The council’s key duties include:
Assisting law enforcement in investigating and responding to Osaec and CSAEM cases.
Implementing local programs to prevent exploitation and support survivor rehabilitation.
Conducting awareness campaigns on responsible internet use.
Establishing a monitoring system for Osaec and CSAEM cases.
Coordinating with national and international organizations for reporting and intervention.
Mayor Garcia said his executive order complements an ordinance recently passed by the City Council, which criminalizes and penalizes Osaec and CSAEM activities in the city.
This initiative aligns with Republic Act 11930 to institutionalize barangay-level efforts and rehabilitation programs. The law’s longer title is the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act. It aims to protect children from online sexual abuse and exploitation by penalizing the production, distribution, possession and access of child sexual abuse or exploitation materials
Integration
Garcia’s order also integrates community-based initiatives, barangay-level programs and victim rehabilitation measures into the City’s legal framework.
To strengthen protection measures, the executive order imposes new regulations on businesses and public internet access.
Key provisions:
Mandatory reporting: Owners of malls, hotels and similar establishments must report suspected cases of child sexual abuse within 48 hours.
Business compliance: All business owners must complete a mandatory seminar on Osaec-CSAEM before obtaining business permits.
Public Wi-Fi restrictions: The order bans access to pornographic and violent content through public Wi-Fi networks.
Garcia emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach in addressing Osaec, citing the rise of online exploitation cases.
“We must act decisively to protect our children from these crimes. This inter-agency effort will ensure a proactive response at all levels,” he said.
The CCIACT-Osaec will meet monthly to discuss updates and emerging challenges, with provisions for additional meetings when necessary, Garcia said. / EHP
