SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has raised concern over the alarming increase in online sexual abuse and exploitation of children in the Philippines, following a recent report by the Commission on Human Rights.

“The surge in online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, as revealed by the Commission on Human Rights, is a red flag we cannot afford to ignore,” Gatchalian said.

“Hindi na natin dapat hayaang maging pugad ang bansa ng ganitong klaseng mga krimen,” he added, stressing that the country must not become a haven for such heinous crimes.

Gatchalian noted that laws such as the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children Act and the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022 have strengthened law enforcement’s ability to address these crimes.

However, he warned that urgent and decisive action is still needed.

“There is no time to waste. We must fully enforce laws that punish offenders and restore every victim’s dignity through recovery and reintegration,” he said.

The senator called for heightened vigilance, stricter law enforcement, and stronger support systems for victims as the country confronts the growing digital threat to children’s safety.