Roblox Open to Appointing PHL Representative Amid SAGIP Bata Act Push

ROBLOX, an online gaming platform, is open to appointing a qualified third party as their local representative, Senator Ana Theresia “Risa” N. Hontiveros-Baraquel said on Thursday. In a statement, Ms. Hontiveros said she met with Roblox amid discussions to strengthen the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation bill, or SAGIP Bata Act. Under the bill, online platforms are mandated to have a Philippine-based representative who can receive subpoenas, takedown and blocking orders, requests for account information, and other legal directives. “When there is a Filipino child who is a possible victim of grooming or online sexual abuse, each hour is important. The authorities need to know immediately who to approach,” Ms. Hontiveros said. Roblox also informed Ms. Hontiveros that it already has channels for coordinating with Philippine law enforcement. Alongside these measures, the company is also beginning to integrate required age and identity verifications for Filipino users attempting to access the game. The adoption of stricter security measures on Roblox comes after government officials, including Ms. Hontiveros, raised serious concerns over reported incidents of online grooming and violent extremism tied to the platform. Ms. Hontiveros welcomed Roblox’s willingness to cooperate with the Philippine government, concluding that parents and users are not solely responsible for children’s digital safety because online platforms catering to young audiences must also protect them from harm. — Francessca S. Abalos