The Philippines is the global epicenter of the online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC). Facilitated by the confluence of poverty, widespread access to Internet, decreasing prices of devices, and a culture of silence and deference to elders, OSEC is particularly challenging to identify, treat, and prosecute. Identifying victims of OSEC and assisting them to reintegrate with their families can also be challenging, as parents are often responsible for their children’s victimization.
WHI's Solution
WHI is working to develop and strengthen systems for comprehensive care of child survivors of OSEC in the Philippines. This work includes expanding availability of psychosocial care practitioners with specialized training to provide trauma-informed counseling and case management; providing short-term emergency shelter, mental health services, and support with legal processes; facilitating reintegration for OSEC survivors; improving understanding of OSEC in the Philippines through research, reporting, and community awareness; and equipping the church to recognize OSEC and seek support for identified victims.
This project is a part of the Child Protection Compact Partnership—a partnership between the Government of the U.S. and the Government of The Philippines—to combat cybercrime, which has horrific consequences for children. This compact is only the second of its kind in the world in which the U.S. government has been involved.
The Impact
With WHI’s support, social workers are learning how to provide a secure and stable environment to survivors of OSEC and to help children cognitively process trauma and provide them and their parents with tools to manage overwhelming thoughts that can lead to stress, anxiety, anger, and depression. Further, through a specialized curriculum developed by WHI, pastors and congregants are accessing the tools needed to protect children from OSEC, recognize OSEC in their communities, and make appropriate referrals.