DICT calls out Meta over unresolved child online safety issues

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has called for stronger accountability from Meta over what it described as unresolved issues involving child online safety, as the agency’s proposed budget was deferred at the House of Representatives.

In a statement, the DICT said it understands the position of the House leadership to defer consideration of its budget pending the resolution of “serious and long-standing concerns” involving Meta. The agency also acknowledged the House’s oversight role and scrutiny of the department.

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DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the issues raised during the budget deliberations include Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials (CSAEM).

The department also cited concerns involving online illegal gambling, cyberbullying, social media addiction, depression, and other mental health risks that it said are facilitated or amplified on major online platforms.

The DICT directed its criticism specifically at Meta, saying other technology platforms have demonstrated cooperation with authorities and progress in implementing safeguards.

“Unlike other technology platforms that have demonstrated meaningful cooperation with authorities and concrete progress in safeguarding users, Meta continues to fall short of its responsibility and commitment to youth safety,” the DICT said.

The department said the scale and reach of Meta’s services require the company to implement measurable safeguards, promptly remove harmful content, and cooperate with Philippine authorities.

“Accountability cannot be optional,” it added.

The DICT stressed that technology companies operating in the country should be held to high standards of responsibility, particularly when their platforms are used by children and young people.

It warned that failure to address online risks could erode public trust, while emphasizing that protecting Filipino children online remains a priority.

The agency said it will continue coordinating with Congress, law enforcement agencies, child protection advocates, and technology companies to strengthen measures aimed at protecting children in digital spaces.

“The protection of children is non-negotiable. All stakeholders, especially the largest platforms, must be held fully accountable,” the DICT said.