Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada is now seeking the passage of a measure seeking to include internet and social media studies in the curriculum of elementary and high school students.
Given how children nowadays are becoming increasingly technologically savvy, Estrada said it is imperative to equip elementary and high school students with the knowledge and tools to help them navigate the virtual world safely and responsibly.
The senator said Senate Bill No. 2934 or the proposed Internet Safety Protection Act, will help them understand the internet and protect them from online dangers.
“The Internet Safety Protection Act is a proactive approach to ensure that Filipino children are informed and resilient in the digital age,” said Estrada, author of the bill.
“By integrating this into the school curriculum, we aim to create a safer online environment and protect the next generation from the ever-evolving threats of the virtual world," he said.
Furthermore, Estrada said the measure will also serve as a preventive mechanism against online sexual abuse and exploitation.
Once passed into law, the lawmaker said the bill will complement Republic Act No. 11930, or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act.
The proposed Internet Education Program will also empower children to protect themselves against any cyberspace-related risks as it will cover subjects related to safe usage and increase awareness on the dangers aof using social media apps (applications), text messaging, instant messaging, websites, blogs, emails, and mobile devices.
The bill also highlights the significance of educating students about privacy protection, identifying fake news, avoiding cyberbullying, and recognizing online predators.
Likewise, the measure emphasizes the importance of responsible internet use and maintaining a balance between online and real-life interactions.
Under the bill, the Department of Education (DepEd) will be tasked with identifying, developing, and implementing an Internet Safety Education Program, which includes educational technology, multimedia applications, and lesson plans.
The bill also seeks professional training for teachers and staff, development of online risk prevention programs for children, support peer-driven initiatives, and coordinate research on online risks.
Moreover, the bill also mandates the DepEd to educate parents on safe internet use and, at the same time, launch public education campaigns in coordination with the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) for resources and guidance.