Cyber patrols to be intensified vs online ‘grooming’

MANILA, Philippines - Cyber patrols will be enhanced to detect online "grooming," recruitment and other activities exposing minors to violence or criminal behavior, according to the National Capital Region Police Office.

The NCRPO has directed the regional anti-cybercrime unit to monitor online communities, threats, recruitments, calls for violence, games and other digital platforms that may expose minors to excessive violence or encourage dangerous activities.

Police operations will not target legitimate online gaming or the youth's usage of technology, but the misuse of digital platforms to manipulate or recruit minors.

School shootings have occurred in Tacloban, Zamboanga and South Cotabato in the last three months.

The NCRPO urged parents, guardians and teachers to monitor children's online activities, including their private chats, gaming communities and social media groups.