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The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is joining the national observance of the 30th National Awareness Week for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation, taking place February 8–14, 2026, as designated by Proclamation 731.

For three decades, this week has affirmed the State’s responsibility – as outlined in Republic Act 7610, the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act – to protect children from all forms of abuse, neglect, cruelty, and exploitation.

Today, the CHR notes that while the Philippines continues to address longstanding issues of child sexual abuse, online sexual abuse and exploitation has become increasingly prevalent. This problem has been exacerbated by expanded digital access, particularly during and after the pandemic. Protecting children now requires increased vigilance and stronger safeguards in both online and offline environments.

Escalating threats in the digital age

Findings from the CHR’s Child Rights Center in its 2025 report align with national and international reports indicating a steep rise in Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (Osaec). Contributing factors include poverty-driven vulnerabilities, the involvement of family members, and the trauma associated with abuse, all of which contribute to underreporting.

The Philippines is obligated, through the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and its Optional Protocols, and domestically through Republic Act 11930, to ensure accessible, child-sensitive, and trauma-informed mechanisms for reporting, rescue, rehabilitation, and justice.

Upholding the best interests of the child

The CHR emphasizes that the best interests of the child must be central to all proceedings, and interventions. This includes trauma-informed investigations and rehabilitation, such as utilizing pre-recorded testimonies to minimize retraumatization. Strengthening community-based psychosocial support for both victims and families in high-risk environments is as well considered essential.

The Commission also stresses the importance of poverty alleviation, monitoring child displacement, child labor, and child marriage, and strengthening collaboration with internet service providers and digital platforms to detect and disrupt online exploitation.

Sustained information and awareness initiatives empowering children, caregivers, schools, and communities are equally vital.

A call for national solidarity

The CHR recognizes the growing movement involving multiple stakeholders working against child sexual abuse and exploitation. Initiatives in 2025, including the CHR’s forum with Ateneo de Manila University, research presented at a Department of Justice summit, and the Kabataan Karapatan Caravan, demonstrate the crucial role of government, academia, civil society, and communities in advancing children’s rights.

The CHR remains committed to amplifying evidence, strengthening partnerships, and monitoring child rights conditions nationwide, in accordance with its mandate to protect the rights of the child.

Child sexual abuse is a profound violation of human rights, stripping children of dignity, safety, and opportunity. Protecting children requires a consistent and collective willingness to confront demanding truths, challenge harmful norms, and strengthen protection systems to respond effectively to evolving risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Republic Act 7610?

Republic Act 7610 is known as the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, and it affirms the State’s duty to safeguard children from all forms of abuse, neglect, cruelty, and exploitation.

What has contributed to the rise in online sexual abuse and exploitation of children?

Expanded digital access, particularly during and after the pandemic, has contributed to the rise in online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, making it a pervasive and deeply rooted problem.

What is the CHR’s role in addressing this issue?

As the country’s national human rights institution, the CHR is committed to amplifying evidence, strengthening partnerships, and monitoring child rights conditions across the country, in keeping with its mandate to promote and protect the rights of the child.

Considering the increasing complexity of online threats, what further steps can communities take to ensure the safety and well-being of children?