CHR calls for stronger protection against child sexual abuse, exploitation
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 from February 8–14, 2026, as officially proclaimed under Proclamation 731. This week-long event reaffirms the State’s commitment to protecting children, a duty rooted in Republic Act 7610, also known as the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.
Escalating Threats in the Digital Age
While longstanding issues of child sexual abuse persist, the CHR highlights a significant increase in Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (Osaec). The CHR’s 2025 report, aligning with national and international findings, shows a steep rise in these cases. In 2023 alone, over 2.7 million cyber tipline reports were recorded, a substantial increase from pre-pandemic levels.
Contributing factors to this increase include poverty-driven vulnerabilities, the involvement of family members, and the trauma associated with abuse, all of which contribute to chronic underreporting. Protecting children in today’s world requires constant vigilance and robust safeguards in both physical and online environments.
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 employing trauma-informed approaches, such as utilizing pre-recorded testimonies to minimize retraumatization. Strengthening community-based psychosocial support for both victims and families in high-risk environments is also considered essential to breaking cycles of abuse.
The Commission also stresses the importance of addressing underlying vulnerabilities through poverty alleviation and livelihood support. Continued monitoring of child displacement, child labour, and child marriage is also crucial, alongside stronger collaboration with internet service providers and digital platforms to detect and disrupt online exploitation.
Sustained information and awareness initiatives are vital to empower children, caregivers, schools, and communities to recognise and respond to these threats.
A Call for National Solidarity
The CHR acknowledges the growing movement involving multiple stakeholders working against child sexual abuse and exploitation. In 2025, initiatives like the CHR’s joint forum with Ateneo de Manila University, the presentation of research at a Department of Justice summit, and the ongoing Kabataan Karapatan Caravan demonstrate the crucial role of government, academia, civil society, and communities in advancing children’s rights.
The CHR remains dedicated to amplifying evidence, strengthening partnerships, and monitoring child rights conditions nationwide, fulfilling its mandate to promote and protect the rights of the child. Child sexual abuse is a severe violation of human rights, depriving children of dignity, safety, and the opportunity to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What legislation protects children in the Philippines?
Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, provides the foundation for safeguarding children. Republic Act 11930, the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act, addresses online exploitation.
What has been the trend in reported cases of online sexual abuse?
Reports of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (Osaec) have been increasing. In 2023 alone, over 2.7 million cyber tipline reports were recorded, which is a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels.
What is the role of the Commission on Human Rights?
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 to promote and protect the rights of the child.
What steps can communities take to better protect children from abuse and exploitation?