The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has lauded the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) online platform “AlengPulis with the CyberSquad,” a virtual helpline for women and children who experience abuse and violence.

In a statement, the CHR said the PNP’s online platform is “a significant step” in addressing the pervasive issue of gender-based violence, particularly in the digital realm.

"Gender-based violence remains a deeply alarming issue that affects countless individuals, especially women and children. Our increasingly digital world has unfortunately provided new platforms for abuse and exploitation, which heighten the vulnerability of the aforementioned sectors," the CHR lamented.

It pointed out that most victims of gender-based abuse and violence are hesitant to seek help because of shame and stigma.

But with the PNP's initiative, the CHR said that women and children are provided with more safeguards to their online privacy and usage. Assistance has also become more accessible, therefore enabling victims to open up and seek help and guidance, it said.

To ensure success in PNP’s initiative, the CHR urged all sectors to actively support and cooperate with the PNP in their effort to combat gender-based violence.

For its part, the CHR said it will monitor the implementation of the program and continue with its investigation and advocacy efforts that seek to address gender-based violence - both online and offline.

"As duty-bearer, it is incumbent upon the government to be ahead of those who seek to prey on the vulnerable using online platforms. Amid the persistent challenges to the safety and empowerment of women and children, the launch of 'AlengPulis with the CyberSquad' helpline is a commendable effort that seeks to provide assistance, support, and guidance to individuals experiencing abuse, exploitation, and harassment in the online sphere," it said.