Pasig City, 24 February 2026  – The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) formalized its partnership with Plan International Pilipinas Foundation Inc. through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the observance of Safer Internet Day 2026 held at Marco Polo Ortigas.

Anchored on the theme “Ako, Ikaw, Tayo: Konektado at Protektado Laban sa OSAEC at CSAEM,” the event gathered government agencies, development partners, private sector representatives, and youth leaders to advance collective efforts against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children.

The MOU was signed by Undersecretary Angelo M. Tapales, Executive Director V of the CWC, and Ms. Pebbles Sanchez-Ogang, Executive Director of Plan International Pilipinas. The signing was witnessed by Atty. David John S. Vergara, Project Development Officer IV and Head of the MAKABATA Helpline 1383, and Ms. Selena B. Fortich, Portfolio Manager, representing their respective organizations. In his message, Usec.Tapales underscored the importance of sustained inter-agency and multi-sector collaboration in addressing emerging digital risks affecting children. “Protecting children in digital spaces requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach”, he emphasized. He likewise highlighted key initiatives such as the MAKABATA Helpline 1383, the national reporting mechanism that provides assistance and referral services for children experiencing abuse and exploitation.

In his message, Usec.Tapales underscored the importance of sustained inter-agency and multi-sector collaboration in addressing emerging digital risks affecting children. “Protecting children in digital spaces requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach”, he emphasized. He likewise highlighted key initiatives such as the MAKABATA Helpline 1383, the national reporting mechanism that provides assistance and referral services for children experiencing abuse and exploitation.