Cagayan Official Urges Prosecution of Lodging Owners in Online Child Sexual Abuse Cases

CAGAYAN: In a move to bolster the fight against online sexual abuse of children, a Cagayan city official has proposed holding lodging house owners accountable for such offenses occurring in their establishments. Jose Edgardo Uy, chief of the Regulatory Compliance Board (RCB), made this suggestion during a City Council’s Committee on Women and Family Relations meeting, headed by 2nd District Councilor Joyleen Mercedes Balaba. Uy, addressing the committee tasked with drafting an ordinance on Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), highlighted that lodging house owners often evade responsibility by claiming ignorance of the abusive activities.

According to Philippines News Agency, He pointed out past instances where minors were trafficked and sexually abused in these establishments. Balaba emphasized the city’s commitment to aligning local legislation with the national Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act. A technical working group, comprising members from various sectors, has been formed to develop key aspects of the proposed ordinance.