Mabalacat City Mayor Geld Aquino joined the celebration of Safer Internet Day 2026, themed “Ako, Ikaw, Tayo: Konektado at Protektado Laban sa OSAEC at CSAEM.” The event was held in observance of Proclamation No. 471, which designates the second Tuesday of February each year as Safer Internet Day for Children in the Philippines, and was organized by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), led by Josephine Tanglao.
The celebration aimed to raise awareness in the community about Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials (CSAEM).
In his message, Mayor Aquino emphasized his administration’s commitment to protecting children from all forms of abuse, particularly in the online space. He highlighted the crucial role of the government, parents, schools, and the community in guiding and monitoring youth for responsible internet use.
Mayor Aquino also noted that his administration is ready to collaborate with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to strengthen efforts against OSAEC and CSAEM. This includes programs promoting digital literacy and online safety awareness, especially for children and young people.
The local observance of Safer Internet Day reflects Mabalacat City LGU’s dedication to ensuring a safe digital environment for all, particularly for the city’s youth.
Also in attendance were Councilors Patricia Acorda and Marjorie Sambo, DILG Mabalacat City Dianne Lorin Tolentino, and City Administrator Geraldine Bernardino.
