PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) have expanded their online child safety education efforts in Cebu, helping students, parents, and teachers recognize digital threats and prevent online exploitation.
The telecommunications companies recently supported the Pista sa Kaalam Cyber-Caravan at the University of San Carlos Main Campus. The sessions covered responsible social media use, common online risks, and ways users can protect themselves and others from digital harm.
The activity was held under Project SCROL, a partnership among PLDT, Smart, Terre des Hommes Netherlands, and Bidlisiw Foundation Inc. The program brings digital safety education and child protection information directly to local communities.
“Technology can be a powerful tool for learning and empowerment, but communities also need the knowledge to navigate the online world safely,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Stakeholder Engagement Head at PLDT and Smart. “By working with organizations that are deeply rooted in the community, we can help equip young people, parents, and educators with practical skills that promote safer digital experiences and protect vulnerable sectors from online harms.”
The sessions helped parents and educators understand the online platforms young people use. Students were also reminded to consider the possible effects of their posts, clicks, and other online interactions.
PLDT Home provided connectivity during the learning activities, allowing participants to access educational materials and take part in interactive sessions.
The program forms part of the PLDT Group’s wider campaign against the online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, or OSAEC. Under its #KonektedforSaferInternet campaign, the group uses its Child Protection Platform and global monitoring tools to detect and block access to online content involving child sexual abuse and exploitation.
These measures support the work of schools, communities, civil society organizations, and government agencies seeking to protect children online and offline.
“Keeping children safe online requires a collective effort,” said Pamela Uy, executive director, Bidlisiw Foundation Inc. “Through partnerships with organizations like PLDT and Smart, we can bring critical information and resources directly to communities, helping parents, educators, and young people become more aware, more prepared, and ultimately more empowered.”