Survivor-led campaign in Lapu-Lapu seeks safer online spaces for children

Local

CHILDREN, parents and community leaders in Lapu-Lapu City are being mobilized to help prevent online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) through a campaign led by survivors of abuse.

The Philippine Survivors Network (PSN), in partnership with the International Justice Mission (IJM) Philippines and the Lapu-Lapu City Government, launched the “Hope You Protect” campaign to raise awareness of online threats against children and strengthen community-based prevention and reporting efforts.

The initiative seeks to engage schools, barangays and families in identifying signs of abuse, understanding online risks and connecting potential victims to appropriate assistance.

Patricia, a PSN survivor leader, said the campaign was developed by survivors to ensure their experiences would help shape child protection programs and encourage communities to take preventive action.

“Protection is not only about responding after harm occurs. It is also about preventing harm and supporting healing and ensuring that no child or survivor is left behind,” she said.

The campaign aims to reach 100,000 children and involve 1,000 parents and adults in child protection advocacy nationwide. It will initially focus on five cities, including Cebu City and Lapu-Lapu City, as well as Quezon City, Taguig City and Cagayan de Oro.

Among its planned activities are interactive discussions in schools using puppetry for younger pupils, educational videos for intermediate-grade students and lessons on appropriate and inappropriate physical contact through music.

Community activities will also include awareness sessions during gatherings such as Zumba classes, where parents and other participants can learn about online exploitation, warning signs and reporting procedures.

The campaign also seeks to address factors that discourage victims from reporting abuse, including fear, stigma, distrust of authorities, cultural barriers and possible retaliation from perpetrators.

In a video message, Lapu-Lapu City Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King Chan said protecting children requires the participation of families and communities, particularly as digital platforms expose young people to dangers that may remain hidden from adults.

“Through awareness, education, survivor leadership, and stronger community participation, we can help children recognize danger, encourage families to be more vigilant, and ensure that those who need help know where to run,” Chan said.

City Social Welfare and Development Office head Ma. Shiela Baylosis said the city would work with barangays, schools and partner agencies to strengthen prevention, reporting and referral mechanisms, as well as provide appropriate support to survivors.

The campaign is seeking barangay support through designated focal persons, access to schools and communities, and the integration of child protection activities into existing local programs.

Organizers said the initiative aims to make survivor participation a continuing part of efforts to build safer communities for children.(MyTVCebu)