MANILA, Philippines — The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has issued show-cause orders to internet service providers (ISPs) for failing to install technology that will block access to websites containing materials on child pornography.
“Over the weekend, the NTC issued Show Cause Orders (SCOs) to ISPs for failing to install available technology, program or software that will block access or filter all websites carrying child pornography materials,” read a press statement released by the NTC on Monday.
The ISPs were required to explain in writing why they should not be administratively sanctioned for the violation. They were also required to attend hearings before the NCT starting the second week of February.
The country currently has more than 500 ISPs nationwide, according to the agency.
This move comes after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the NTC to impose sanctions on ISPs for their supposed failure to stop the proliferation of child pornography in the country, following reports that there was an increase in child online sexual exploitation during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown.
RELATED STORIES:
PLDT group blocks 3,011 child porn sites
DSWD vows to boost anti-child porn efforts amid reports of increased activities