by Wyslly Ala; with reports from Alexandra Espinosa, Project Officer

Educo Philippines, in partnership with the LGU of Manito and the Municipal Council for the Protection of Children (MCPC), proudly shares the success of the 33rd National Children’s Month celebration through Project KABATAAN: “Kaligtasan sa Bagong Teknolohiya at Aksyon Laban sa Exploitation” and “Heart of the Digital Age: An Online Art Exhibit Depicting the Dangers and Measures for OSAEC-CSAEM.” The activity was held on November 18, 2025, at the Manito People Centrum, Manito, Albay, gathering young leaders and stakeholders committed to strengthening child protection.

This initiative amplified the urgent call to address Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials (CSAEM), issues that continue to endanger children’s rights and safety in the fast-evolving digital landscape. By fostering awareness and strengthening community support systems, the event contributed to ongoing efforts toward safer digital environments for Filipino children.

Through a community-based workshop, SSLG officers, BCO officers, and selected students of Manito National High School engaged in interactive sessions that deepened their understanding of online risks, digital responsibility, and ways to protect themselves and others on the internet. These discussions equipped participants with essential skills, recognizing harmful content, identifying inappropriate online behavior, and reporting potential threats, turning them into empowered advocates for online safety within their communities.

To further reinforce the lessons, the children designed Online Safety Shields, symbolic artworks that represented their personal commitment to protecting themselves and their peers from OSAEC-CSAEM. Their creativity and insight demonstrated how capable and empowered children can be when provided platforms to express their ideas and exercise their right to participation.

The activity also strengthened awareness of Educo’s campaign, “Bata, Boses, Bukas,” which underscores every child’s right to protection, meaningful participation, and a bright future. Through this initiative, the youth of Manito not only learned about online safety, they also embodied the message that children, when informed and empowered, can become strong defenders of their own rights.