Lawmakers, security officials, and child protection advocates raised alarm over the growing cases of “grooming” targeting minors through online gaming platforms such as Roblox during a Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality hearing on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
The inquiry, led by Senator Risa Hontiveros, focused on reports that children spending long hours online are increasingly becoming vulnerable to online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC), radicalization, and exposure to violent instructions.
Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) officials reported that victims are often minors who spend five hours or more daily on the internet, particularly on gaming platforms, and are targeted by online predators posing as friends.
Police Colonel Romeo Desiderio said groomers—often operating from abroad—gradually build trust with children before coercing them into harmful activities, including self-harm, extortion, and in extreme cases, violent crimes such as murder, kidnapping, and mass violence.
Authorities also cited recent rescue operations, including seven minors in Laguna and 12 others in Marikina, Las Piñas, and Negros Occidental, who were allegedly influenced to plan violent acts.
The committee stressed that online safety has now become a national security concern, with Hontiveros warning that both offenders and negligent platforms will be held accountable.
“The safety of our children is a shared responsibility,” she said during the hearing.
Senator Imee Marcos also urged stricter safeguards, including stronger parental controls, age verification, and identity checks on platforms like Roblox. She secured a commitment from the company to designate a focal person for coordination with Philippine authorities.
The Philippine Psychiatric Association also cautioned that excessive internet use among children may be linked to rising mental health risks, including suicidal tendencies, urging parents to closely monitor online activity.
Officials are now considering stricter regulatory measures, including mandatory safety protocols for digital platforms operating in the country, as part of efforts to curb online child exploitation and emerging cyber threats.
