Pasig City, Philippines — The future of the Philippines’ digital landscape is in safe hands. Representatives from organizations, academic institutions, faith-based groups, youth sectors, and the Pasig City Government gathered at the 5th National Youth Leadership Summit on Safer Cyberspace on November 22–23, 2025, at the Buting Elementary School Gymnasium in Brgy. Buting.
This year’s theme, “PAGBUNGA”, symbolizes the steady growth of ongoing initiatives to empower children and youth, ensuring their online environments remain safe, inclusive, and resilient. The summit underscored the vital role of collective action in promoting Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) prevention, psychosocial support, community-based digital safety, and youth leadership. It also highlighted the importance of AI literacy, digital resilience, and collaborative advocacy among youth, parents, and educators.
Strengthening Digital Safety Efforts
The summit opened with remarks from Paolo Sangil, highlighting the achievements of past summits, ongoing CyberGuardiansPH programs, and strategic approaches to emerging technology challenges. Experts from child protection, education, psychosocial services, law enforcement, and the tech sector shared insights and best practices to combat child online abuse.
The event reinforced that protecting children online is a shared responsibility—a unified effort spanning government, communities, and advocacy organizations.
Key Statements from Leaders
Edward D. Sola, RSW, Children and Youth Division Chief:
“Safeguarding children online is not just a government task—it is a community responsibility. Cyberspace challenges will continue to evolve, but together, we will keep protecting, educating, and empowering.”
Richelle Ann C. Buan, DepEd Policy Lead Technical Officer:
“Social media is not just a communication tool—it shapes how you see the world, yourself, and others, even your views on social and political issues.”
Hannah Misha Morillo, MA, MSc, MLAC Institute Executive Director:
“We listen, and we don’t judge. This gives us the freedom to express who we are. Strong parent-child relationships are crucial for mental health later in life.”
Frei Sangil, Layertech Software Labs CEO:
“Technology, people, and the environment must go hand in hand. What we practice in our homes and beyond this summit will build the foundation of a safer cyberspace.”
Sergio:
“We must educate our children so they do not become digitally confused. We must be critical thinkers.”
PMAJ Meriel Editha Reyes, PNP-WCPC Assistant Chief:
“We should always be one step ahead in our reporting mechanisms.”
Beyond the Screen: A Face-to-Face with Frontliners of Child Protection and Online Safety
The panel featured:
Girlie Cruz, Kagawad, Barangay Sta. Lucia
Mary Joy Bilason, Senior Social Worker, International Justice Mission
PLT Jomel Ross B. Siat, PNP-ACG
