CEBU CITY, Philippines — A new multi-sectoral initiative aimed at combating digital abuse, titled CyberShield Against Sexual Exploitation (CASE), was officially launched here on Wednesday, September 23.
The launch was attended by government officials, law enforcement personnel, legal professionals, social workers, educators, and community advocates.
Lead convenor Winley Sanchez dela Fuente shared that he initiated the project after several aspiring models approached him for assistance.
“Their sensitive photos were spread online without their consent. So to prevent incidents like these and help victims, we created this advocacy,” said Dela Fuente.
Prominent attendees included Cebu 3rd District Representative Karen Hope Garcia, former Representative Pablo John Garcia, former Mandaue City treasurer Atty. Regal Oliva, political strategist Malou Tiquia, and Cebu City Councilor Paul Labra. Businesswoman Cathy Binag also participated in the event, sharing her personal experience with online abuse.
Police Lt. Gen. Bernard Banac affirmed the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) commitment to collaborating with various sectors to curb digital crimes against minors, noting that the initiative will bolster public support for police operations.
“The PNP, together with the whole community, strongly believes that children deserve to grow up free from exploitation,” Banac said.
Representing National Bureau of Investigation-Central Visayas (NBI-7) Director Antonio M. Pagatpat, Agent Maria Contessa Lastimoso underscored the necessity of institutional cooperation.
“With the creation of CASE, we are on the right track,” said Lastimoso.
Police Col. Jay D. Guillermo of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group stressed the critical role of families and parents in safeguarding children from online risks, while Department of Social Welfare and Development-Central Visayas (DSWD-7) representative Ligaya Dael highlighted the complex trauma survivors endure.
“The recovery demands major steps and a concerted unified effort from families, communities, and institutions,” Dael said.
Addressing the broad scope of digital abuse, Atty. Regal Oliva emphasized the need for an inclusive framework that protects all vulnerable groups.
“Let us remember that human dignity has no gender,” Oliva said.
The launch event concluded with the formal signing of the Task Force CASE commitment and the administration of the CASE Advocacy Oath, officiated by veteran lawyer Orlando Salatandre.