MTRCB, DICT, and Digital Pilipinas join forces to combat Cybercrime and promote Digital Literacy

MTRCB Chair Lala Sotto

LALA Sotto, the Chairperson of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and Digital Pilipinas (DP) to formalize the government and private industry’s partnership aimed at combating Cybercrime and promoting Digital Literacy and Commerce Secretary Ivan John Uy, a lawyer, signed for DICT and Ms Amor Maclang for DP in last Monday’s historic event.

“The rise of online streaming applications and websites, user-generated content, and on-demand services have changed the way Filipino viewers consume media,” Sotto said. “Children now have practically uncontrolled access to motion picture materials and information, which can be harmful if consumed without proper supervision. If left unsupervised, young viewers may be exposed to inappropriate and illegal content that can cause harm, such as sexual exploitation, grooming, and violence.” Underscoring the importance of the collaboration among the three entities, the MTRCB Chair added: “Our partnership is an invitation to all stakeholders--including parents, educators, content creators, and technology providers, to unite and create a safer, responsible, and empowering digital future for all Filipinos. Let us commit to educating the public through Digital and Media Literacy to safeguard our children from harm. The digital realm knows no boundaries, and neither should our commitment to protect our children.” Under the MOA, a comprehensive strategy will be in place to encompass various initiatives, including combating phishing, text scams, and online harm and promoting responsible media consumption. Through public education campaigns, informative materials, and interactive content, Filipinos will be empowered to navigate the digital world securely and responsibly. The signing ceremony was witnessed by MTRCB Board Members, lawyers Paulino Cases Jr. and Cesar Pareja, and DICT Undersecretary for Connectivity, Cybersecurity, and Upskilling, Jeffrey Ian Dy.