Senator Imee Marcos has issued a stern warning to global gaming giant Roblox, threatening a total ban in the Philippines if the platform fails to overhaul its safety protocols and curb rising cases of online child exploitation.
During a recent briefing, Marcos expressed frustration over the country’s growing reputation as a hotspot for digital abuse.
“Naging number two na tayo sa child exploitation—nakakahiya,” Marcos stated.
She gave Roblox a 90-day window to prove the effectiveness of its updated safeguards and resolve outstanding child safety complaints. Failure to comply, she warned, would result in prohibition from operating in the country.
“Kung hindi talaga kayang i-regulate, suspindehin na lang,” she added.
Key Requirements Outlined by Marcos
- Centralized Database: A unified system to track and log online sexual abuse cases.
- Dedicated Local Staff: A monitoring team focused exclusively on the Philippine market.
- Simplified Parental Controls: Easier tools for parents to oversee children’s interactions.
Marcos emphasized that fragmented investigations by government agencies are insufficient to combat organized cybercrime, calling for a cohesive, multi-agency approach.
The ultimatum comes amid a global push for stricter regulation of gaming and social platforms. If enforced, the ban would disconnect millions of Filipino users, marking one of the most significant regulatory actions against a tech company in Philippine history.