Philippines: Adopted Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act

On 23 May 2022, the Parliament of the Philippines adopted the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act (Republic Act No. 11930). This law amends the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009, aiming to protect children from various forms of online sexual abuse and exploitation, particularly those facilitated through information and communications technology (ICT). The Act targets the punishment of online sexual abuse or exploitation of children (OSAEC), encompassing the production, dissemination, and possession of child sexual abuse or exploitation material (CSAEM). It clearly defines prohibited behaviours, establishes a safe harbour exception, and outlines the duties and responsibilities of the private sector in preventing online sexual abuse or exploitation of children, along with specifying penalties for offences under the Act.