Quezon city: The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) have signed a partnership agreement aimed at enhancing online protection for children in the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, the memorandum of agreement (MOA) was signed to create a mutually beneficial collaboration between the two entities, specifically to aid the CICC in identifying and addressing criminal cases such as scams or schemes targeting children. CICC head of communications Aya Macalma emphasized the MOA's purpose is to mutually assist in improving digital safety for Filipino children.

The CICC stated that the partnership will focus on expanding the 'Makabata Program,' with a particular emphasis on integrating the Makabata Helpline 1383 with the CICC hotline 1326. This integration aims to establish a 24/7 national reporting mechanism, offering direct support to children facing online threats, violence, sexual abuse, and exploitation.

Under the MOA, the CICC is tasked with leading both online and community-based information campaigns to raise public awareness about the Makabata helpline's functions. Additionally, the CICC will extend technical support to the CWC, ensuring prompt investigations and swift responses to reports of digital threats against children.

The CICC also plans to establish a 'seamless referral pathway' between the Makabata Helpline 1383 and the CICC Action Center Hotline 1326, reinforcing their commitment to safeguarding the rights of Filipino youth. The agencies urge the public to report any suspected abuse.

The agreement was signed by CICC Executive Director Undersecretary Aboy Paraiso, CWC Executive Director Undersecretary Angelo Tapales, and other key executives at the CWC office in Quezon City.