ZAMBOANGA CITY – In a decisive move to safeguard children from online sexual abuse and exploitation, Mayor John Dalipe signed Ordinance No. 708 on Friday, March 21. Known as the ‘Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Abuse of Exploitation of Materials (CSAEM)’ ordinance, the measure aims to reinforce child protection efforts within the city.
The signing ceremony, held at the City Hall conference room, was attended by Councilor Al-Jihan Edding, one of the ordinance’s principal authors, alongside child rights advocates and representatives from various support agencies.
The ordinance institutionalizes programs to prevent and eliminate child exploitation, enforces strict penalties against offenders, and ensures a supportive environment for victims. It mandates increased vigilance among internet service providers, business establishments, and community sectors while strengthening rehabilitation and protection initiatives from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-9), and other supporting agencies.
Councilor Edding expressed gratitude to Mayor Dalipe for signing the ordinance, emphasizing its crucial role in enhancing child protection and preventing online exploitation. She underscored the need for collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the law’s effective implementation.
During the event, attendees reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying child protection measures and enforcing the ordinance. Present at the signing were representatives from the CSWDO, DSWD-9, Katilingban sa Kalambuan Organization, Inc. (KKI), and other supporting organizations.
With the ordinance now in place, Zamboanga City is taking a firm stance against online child exploitation, setting a precedent for stronger local action in protecting the welfare of children.
