Hontiveros seeks Roblox, online games probe over sexual grooming, radicalization

MANILA, Philippines – Senator Risa Hontiveros on Monday, March 23 filed a resolution seeking an investigation on gaming platforms and games Roblox, Minecraft, Call of Duty, Free Fire, and other similar “multiplayer environments that enable real-time communication and interaction among users.”

The probe was sought over the recent news that authorities were able to foil an alleged planned school attack in Calabarzon, after being “exposed to violent content” in online gaming chat environments, underscoring the potential misuse of such platforms for violent radicalization and coordination.”

Threats of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children in digital platforms was also mentioned as a concern.

Hontiveros sought to examine current age verification systems that “rely primarily on self-declaration of age” which it deems inadequate.

“Congress must enhance legislation or regulatory frameworks to strengthen digital literacy and responsible gaming education for children and address the mental health implications of excessive online gaming,” read part of the resolution. – Rappler.com

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