The National Privacy Commission (NPC), through its Public Information and Assistance Division (PIAD), successfully organized the Kabataang Digital (KD) Caravan and the Young Privacy Advocates Annual Summit 2023.
"The recognition on the global stage reflects the importance of our continuing efforts in instilling responsible digital habits among the youth," NPC Commissioner John Henry D. Naga said in a statement on Wednesday, Nov. 29.
"This encourages us to persist in our endeavor to equip the younger generation with the right tools necessary for a secure and mindful digital presence," he added.
The 2023 KD Caravan and Young Privacy Advocates Annual Summit is a data security advocacy campaign held from September to November at various schools in Metro Manila.
In line with the theme "Matalino, Mapagmatyag, at Mapanuri (Intelligent, Observant, and Analytical)," the caravan has successfully reached over 800 elementary and high school students from Gregorio Perfecto High School, Philippine Science High School, and Manila Central University.
The initiative aimed to share basic knowledge on the implications of the digital environment related to children's privacy rights and to promote online safety, as well as the age-appropriate use of online platforms and technologies.
Naga added that KD 2023 is not just a "professional commitment" but also a "personal" one, emphasizing its significance beyond the realm of work as a parent.
"The Kabataang Digital campaign is an embodiment of our dedication to empower the youth with the sufficient knowledge and skills needed for responsible and secure online practices," Naga said.
Aligned with the commission's mission of building a culture of privacy by involving the youth in privacy discussions, the KD campaign has reached around 18,000 young individuals since its kickoff in 2019.
Meanwhile, PIAD Division Chief Roren Marie M. Chin underscored the objective of the KD campaign to counter the growing concerns surrounding the online safety of Filipino children.
"Every day, more Filipino children are accessing the internet, exposing themselves to potential dangers online," Chin said.
"It is our collective duty to ensure that our children are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the online world safely," she added.