Author: Hon. Ma. Corazon M. Peñaflor, Hon. Gilda Gayle R. Abonal-Gomez, Hon. Elmer S. Baldemoro, and Hon. Jefson Romeo Felix
Date Filed: June 9, 2026
This proposed local law, titled the “Naga City Responsible Digital Use and Child Online Protection Ordinance of 2026,” establishes guidelines to protect young children from the potential harms of the digital world. It covers children aged three (3) to ten (10) years old within Naga City. The ordinance aims to foster digital literacy, prevent cyberbullying, and counter online exploitation by emphasizing active supervision from parents and guardians. Rather than punishing families, the city focuses on support, guidance, and educational seminars to help parents manage their children’s internet access and device use safely.
Highlights of Proposed Ordinance
- REGULATED AGE BRACKET: The ordinance specifically applies to all children aged three (3) to ten (10) years old who live or study in Naga City.
- PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES: Parents and guardians are directed to monitor device use, set healthy screen-time limits, use parental control tools, and ensure children do not open social media accounts that violate platform age rules.
- DISCOURAGED AND PROHIBITED ACTS: The measure discourages and flags behavior such as allowing children to see age-inappropriate, violent, or obscene content, and permitting children to engage in cyberbullying.
- PROGRESSIVE ADMINISTRATIVE MEASURES: Instead of criminal penalties, violations will trigger supportive, educational interventions for parents:
- 1st Instance: Written Reminder and Orientation.
- 2nd Instance: Mandatory Attendance in a Digital Parenting Seminar.
- 3rd Instance: Referral to the CSWDO and Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) for proper intervention.
- COMMUNITY & SCHOOL PROGRAMS: Local schools are encouraged to teach cyber safety, while city offices and barangays will conduct regular awareness campaigns on safe internet usage and responsible digital citizenship.
- Proposed