THE HOUSE of Representatives has approved a measure aimed at strengthening the country’s response to online child exploitation by expanding government powers to disrupt criminal networks and enhance digital safety protections for children.

Under the proposed legislation, authorities would be empowered to issue takedown and disruption orders against websites, online accounts, digital platforms, and other internet-based infrastructure used to facilitate child exploitation offenses.

The bill also imposes greater responsibilities on internet service providers, digital platforms, financial intermediaries, educational institutions, and regulatory agencies to help prevent, detect, and report online child exploitation activities.

Lawmakers said the measure seeks to establish a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to addressing the growing threat of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children by requiring key sectors to actively cooperate with law enforcement and child protection agencies.

In addition, the bill strengthens financial surveillance mechanisms by authorizing covered entities to temporarily restrict suspicious transactions linked to child exploitation offenses.

Authorities said the provision would help trace illicit financial flows, identify perpetrators, and disrupt criminal operations.

A key feature of the measure is the institutionalization of a whole-of-government approach through the creation of the National Council for Child Online Safety and Protection under the Department of Justice.

The council will be tasked with formulating policies, coordinating government efforts, and overseeing the implementation of child online protection initiatives.

The proposed law also establishes the National Child-Safety Command and Operations Service, which will serve as the council’s operational arm.

The new body will be responsible for investigations, intelligence gathering, monitoring activities, and interagency coordination in the fight against online child exploitation.

Supporters of the measure said the legislation recognizes the increasingly sophisticated methods employed by online predators and seeks to equip authorities with stronger tools to safeguard children in the digital environment.