Telcos to block sites streaming school shootings, violent content
Major Philippine telecommunications companies, including PLDT and Globe, are blocking websites that host footage of school shootings and extreme violence. The initiative aims to prevent the glorification of violence and protect children from harmful online content.
Why it matters
This reflects a growing trend of private sector intervention in content moderation to address public safety concerns and digital ethics.
Content warning: School shooting, violence
MANILA, Philippines - Telecommunications companies PLDT Inc., Smart Communications Inc. and Globe Telecom said they will block websites hosting or streaming footage of school shootings and other acts of extreme violence, following the recent fatal shooting at a school in Zamboanga City.
Manuel "Manny" V. Pangilinan-led PLDT said Friday, August 21, that it will block more than 100 websites found to be streaming or hosting footage of school shootings and other acts of extreme violence.
The blocking will also cover the network of its wireless arm, Smart, meaning PLDT and Smart subscribers will no longer be able to access websites identified by the company.
"This is something we do not tolerate," PLDT Chief Operating Officer Butch Jimenez said.
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