Manila: A Senate bill is proposing the integration of internet safety education into the curriculums of all elementary and secondary schools in the Philippines. Senate Bill No. 2934, also known as the Internet Safety Education Act, aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the online world responsibly while protecting themselves from potential dangers.

According to Philippines News Agency, the bill's author, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, highlighted the growing online risks faced by children, such as cyberbullying, privacy breaches, identity theft, and exposure to inappropriate content. Estrada stated, "This bill seeks to create a safer digital environment and empower the next generation to be informed, ethical, and responsible internet users."

The proposal builds on the foundation of Republic Act No. 11930, which focuses on the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act, by emphasizing preventive measures. It aligns with a 2017 UNICEF study's recommendations, which pointed out the vulnerability of Filipino children in the digital age.

Under the bill, the Department of Education (DepEd) will lead the implementation of an Internet Safety Education Program. This program will feature age-appropriate, research-based curricula to promote internet literacy and ethics, training for teachers, parents, and school administrators on online safety, public awareness campaigns to highlight internet use risks and responsibilities, and collaborative efforts with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for technical support and guidance.

Estrada stressed the importance of fostering digital literacy at an early age to empower children to prevent or respond to online risks, including fake news, online predators, and excessive screen time. "By incorporating this program into our education system, we aim to strike a balance between the opportunities and risks presented by the digital world," he added.

The bill mandates DepEd to develop multimedia tools, lesson plans, and peer-driven initiatives to enhance online safety education. Additionally, it will provide professional training for teachers and staff, develop online risk prevention programs for children, support peer-driven initiatives, and coordinate research on online risks. The DepEd is also tasked with launching public education campaigns, educating parents on safe internet use, and coordinating with the DICT and other agencies for resources and guidance.

Estrada concluded that the measure will protect young Filipinos while ensuring they can thrive in a technology-driven society.