THE SENATE on Monday approved the proposed Sagip Bata Act on third and final reading, advancing legislation aimed at strengthening the protection of Filipino children from online exploitation, abuse, and other emerging digital threats.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, author and sponsor of the measure, described the bill as the product of a broad effort involving government agencies, law enforcement, civil society groups, experts, survivors, and their families.

Hontiveros thanked the Department of Justice and the National Coordination Center on Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials, as well as the DSWD, DICT, AMLC, BSP, Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation, and other partners for their contributions to the measure.

She also highlighted the role of the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center (PICACC) and its personnel in investigating online crimes involving children.

Hontiveros called on her fellow senators to ensure sufficient funding for agencies tasked with implementing the measure, particularly as online threats continue to evolve.

She noted that PICACC still relies heavily on foreign donor support for some software subscriptions and digital forensic tools.

“The threats are evolving,” Hontiveros said.

She cited online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, child sexual abuse and exploitation materials, as well as emerging forms of online grooming and recruitment of children for serious violent activities, including national violence and extremism.

The senator urged lawmakers to provide implementing agencies with adequate personnel, training, technology, and other resources needed to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

Hontiveros also stressed that implementation of the measure should not be delayed by corporate interests.

She said the protection of Filipino children must remain the priority as lawmakers work with government agencies and financial institutions to address legitimate concerns surrounding the legislation.

“The protection of Filipino children cannot be held hostage by the corporate interests of social media platforms. Our children must come first,” Hontiveros said.

With its approval on third and final reading, the proposed Sagip Bata Act moves forward in the legislative process, as the Senate seeks stronger safeguards for children against online exploitation, grooming, and other emerging digital threats.