DICT Caraga calls for responsible online parenting
By Mariesh F. Celedeña
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — “One of the priorities of DICT is online safety of the Filipinos, especially children. It is important that as parents, we guide our children in using the internet and social media responsibly.”
This was emphasized by Reymar A. Estafia, planning officer of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga, during the Kapihan sa PIA on November 26 to address the rising cases of online sexual abuse and identity manipulation involving children.
Estafia highlighted DICT’s Digital Parenting Training Program, which equips parents with tools to ensure their children’s online safety. He pointed out that cyber safety begins at home, noting that parents must first understand responsible digital behavior to impart it to their children.
The training lesson is available online through their official Facebook page at the DICT Caraga Regional Office and the barangay. Also, anyone may request a session from their office by sending a letter or message to them via Facebook.
Estafia also disclosed that, based on DICT’s awareness campaigns and forums, one of the common issues raised and identified is poor communication between parents and their children, especially regarding their online activities. “Many parents overlook the need to check on their children or talk with them about their online and daily activities. They are often unaware of who their children interact with online or what they are doing in digital spaces.”
Through its responsible online parenting program, DICT encourages parents to maintain open communication with their children and regularly monitor their accounts. He urged the use of available online security features, such as two-factor authentication, to protect young users against identity theft and hacking, which is now among the most common cyber risks.
Meanwhile, DICT continues to work hand-in-hand with other government agencies and private stakeholders to strengthen digital platform security and build a safer digital environment for every Filipino child under its Safer Online Philippines campaign. (MFC, PIA Caraga)