Philippines Proposes Internet Safety Education Act

The Philippines proposes a new bill to integrate internet safety into school curriculums. It aims to empower students against online threats like cyberbullying and privacy breaches.


Philippines Proposes Internet Safety Education Act

The Internet Safety Education Act, a new Senate bill in the Philippines, proposes the incorporation of internet safety education into the curricula of all elementary and secondary schools. Senate Bill No. 2934 aims to provide students with essential knowledge and skills to navigate the online world effectively, especially considering the increasing risks such as cyberbullying, privacy violations, identity theft, and exposure to inappropriate content.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, the bill's author, emphasized the significance of creating a safer digital environment and empowering the next generation to be well-informed, ethical, and responsible internet users. If the bill is enacted, the Department of Education will take charge of implementing an Internet Safety Education Program. This program will involve developing educational materials, conducting training sessions for teachers, parents, and school administrators on online safety, launching public awareness campaigns, and providing multimedia tools and lesson plans.

Estrada highlighted the importance of integrating internet safety education into the school curriculum for establishing a protected online environment and safeguarding the youth from the ever-evolving threats in the virtual world. The proposed bill aims to equip students with the necessary skills to recognize online risks, protect their privacy, and behave responsibly while engaging in online activities.