DSWD-7 launches Safer Internet Campaign 2026

CEBU CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 7(DSWD FO7) launched the “Safer Internet Campaign 2026” highlighting responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on February 9 at the weekly Convocation program at the office.

“DSWD-7 is actively monitoring and responding to reports of Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and the proliferation of Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM). We continue to reinforce laws and intensify efforts to combat these issues. We also encourage parents to take an active role as the first protectors of their children in ensuring the safe and responsible use of the internet,” said DSWD-7 regional director Shalaine Lucero.

Lucero said that the office continues to strengthen the implementation of laws and policies that promote the responsible use of the internet to ensure the safety and protection of children in Central Visayas.  She emphasized the critical role of parents as the primary guardians in protecting their children from online dangers.

Lucero bared that Proclamation No. 417, s. 2018 declares the second Tuesday of February of every year as Safer Internet Day for Children in the Philippines. DSWD serves as the co-chairperson of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking–Violence Against Women and Their Children (IACAT-VAWC-7) and as the chairperson of the Regional Council for the Welfare of Children (RCWC).

DSWD-7 Children Sector Focal Person Ligaya Dael said that month-long campaign highlights the importance of promoting a safer digital environment for children and strengthening awareness of online protection mechanisms with a series of webinar sessions on internet safety for children until February 26, which is the culmination of the campaign. (Photos: DSWD7/FB)