Globe, NPC Renew Alliance to Help Filipinos Stay Safe and Responsible Online

Globe and the National Privacy Commission (NPC) have renewed their partnership to help more Filipinos, particularly young people, protect their privacy and navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. The collaboration takes on greater relevance as emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly shape how people learn, communicate, and interact.

The two organizations renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on October 19, continuing their work on Kabataang Digital, the NPC’s youth-focused advocacy that equips young Filipinos with practical knowledge on data privacy, digital citizenship, and safe online behavior. The partnership will also support Safe Space 2.0, a follow-up to Globe’s Safe Space children’s book that will tackle AI and digital wellness, reflecting the need to help young people use emerging technologies responsibly.

“Protecting people online goes beyond having strong privacy policies and safeguards. People also need the knowledge and confidence to understand their rights, recognize risks, and make informed decisions whenever they go online,” said Atty. Irish Salandanan-Almeida, Globe Chief Privacy Officer and Head of the Digital Policy and Governance Group. “By continuing our work with the National Privacy Commission, we can bring practical privacy and digital safety education closer to the people and communities who need it.”

As part of the collaboration, Globe will participate in selected activities under the NPC’s Kabataang Digital Program and other awareness, educational, and capacity-building initiatives. Globe will also support these efforts through its Safe Space books and related learning materials, including the donation of copies of the second edition of the Safe Space books to the NPC after publication.

The partnership builds on Globe’s broader efforts to help Filipinos stay safe and responsible online. These include its Go Safe with Globe advocacy, which brings together initiatives that help people recognize online risks, protect their personal information, and make safer choices in digital spaces. Additionally, through its Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), Globe provides workshops and learning modules that equip young Filipinos with practical skills on digital citizenship, privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible technology use. Since its launch in 2016, DTP has reached more than 2 million students and educators nationwide, bringing digital citizenship and online safety education to schools and communities.

More recently, Globe partnered with GMA Network on GoSafe sa Cyberspace, bringing practical online safety lessons directly to students and helping young people better recognize and respond to digital risks. Together with DTP, the initiative demonstrates how Globe is taking online safety advocacy into schools and communities where young Filipinos learn and engage.

“Building a culture of privacy starts with giving people the knowledge to make safer and more responsible choices online. Our continued partnership with Globe allows us to bring privacy education closer to Filipinos, especially young people who are growing up in an increasingly digital world,” said NPC Privacy Commissioner Jan Barcena. “By working together across government and the private sector, we can help more Filipinos understand their rights, protect their personal information, and become more responsible digital citizens.”

The collaboration reflects Globe’s continuing work with government, schools, media, and other partners to build a safer digital environment. By combining public education with partnerships that extend its reach, Globe aims to give more Filipinos practical knowledge they can use to protect themselves online.

PLDT, Smart Call for Collective Action to Protect Children Online

PLDT and Smart are calling for urgent, collective action across government, industry, schools, families, and communities to address growing threats to children in the digital world, stressing that no single sector can protect young Filipinos online on its own.

For PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology Officer Menardo “Butch” G. Jimenez, the issue has become one of the company's top priorities as mounting risks to children have increasingly extended into both online and offline spaces.

“Our children are under attack. And the moment your child is under attack, that becomes priority one,” Jimenez said, noting that addressing these threats cannot be left to telco companies or government alone, but instead would require various sectors to work together, bring to the table their respective expertise, and transform these into practical solutions.

“This problem is not solved by telcos playing God or even government playing God. This problem is solved by every single sector in this room talking with each other to understand the problem, and together come up with solutions,” he said.

PLDT and Smart put this call for collaboration into action through the “Safe Online Space Forum: Building Safer Online Spaces for Filipino Children and Families,” which convened voices from government, telco, technology, education, families, media, and civil society to examine safeguards and policies, harmful online content and threats, and ways to empower children to navigate the digital world safely.

Jimenez emphasized that PLDT’s role is not to prescribe the answers, but to bring together stakeholders with the knowledge and experience needed to develop them.

“We’re here not to lead; rather, we are here to listen. We are not the experts,” he said, noting that while telcos like PLDT have technological expertise, protecting children also requires experts from fields like education, psychology, policy, parenting, and other disciplines to weigh in.

Jimenez also challenged stakeholders to go beyond broad statements and instead identify concrete actions that can make an immediate difference for children. “We have to come up with actual initiatives and solutions that we can do and use tomorrow already, because the crisis is already escalating,” he said.

Multi-sectoral panels

Joining the first panel, which examined existing regulations and policies and the roles different institutions play in protecting children, were representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd), Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), Philippine National Police (PNP), Office of Senator Risa Hontiveros, and Converge ICT Solutions Inc.

“We will not win in the reactive part of cybercrime. We will always win on the proactive side. In fact, with our engagement with the platforms, we now have a channel where we can communicate and coordinate before requesting action on harmful content,” said Dir. Rojun V. Hosillos of the Cybercrime Investigation Office at CICC.

A second panel brought together perspectives from social media platforms like TikTok, esports athletes, media, and families on addressing harmful content and threats in the digital world.

"I think it's important that we don't automatically blame gaming or e-sports as harmful," said National Esports Athlete and National Chairperson of the Esports Party List Alexandre “AK” Laverez, who at age 12 had the opportunity to represent the country on the global stage. "The e-sports industry offers careers, friendships, and opportunities."

The final panel, which focused on how families, schools, and communities can help raise empowered and digitally resilient children, included child development experts, non-government organizations, educators, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development's Social Technology Bureau.

“Invest in parent education, care for teachers, and boost content creators. Invest in the people influencing children, in addition to investing in technology,” said Dr. Tina Zamora, family life and child development specialist and developmental psychologist.

Bryanna Mariñas, founder and executive director of Violence Ends With Us, urged stakeholders to include the youth in the conversation: “Work with children, young people, and survivors to actually understand how they're experiencing the world and how they're using the technology. Work with survivors and victims of violence to understand what they've experienced, what was not done, and what you can do better to prevent that harm happening to other people.”

The discussions were moderated by PLDT and Smart Public Engagement Group Head Roby Alampay, Deputy Head Gian Lao, and PLDT Chief Legal Counsel Atty. Joan de Venecia-Fabul.

Parents are key

Jimenez himself emphasized the responsibility of parents in helping children develop the values and judgment they need to navigate increasingly complex online environments. “We can talk about how technology, the government, or the laws will solve this, but the reality is a big part of the solution lies with the parents as well,” he said, reminding stakeholders that their respective capabilities also bring a responsibility to act: “To whom much is given, much is required. We are not mere bystanders in this. We are actually people who can help.”

The Safe Online Space Forum forms part of the PLDT Group’s broader efforts to advance multi-stakeholder collaboration in creating safer digital environments for children. The initiative also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16 on Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.

IDfy Philippines Turns Scam Education Into Graphic Novel, Launches “Chaos in Cavite” to Unmask Money Mule Networks

Manila, Philippines — Trust tech leader IDfy Philippines launches “Chaos in Cavite,” an investigative graphic novel designed to educate the public and the financial industry on the mechanics of money mule networks and digital fraud.

The graphic novel continues the story of investigative journalist Cal, first introduced in IDfy’s Mayhem in Makati, whose own family was upended by identity fraud. In this installment, Cal investigates a relationship-based "pig butchering" scam targeting Ernesto Reyes, a retired banker in General Trias who lost his lifetime savings through a patient, months-long setup inside a Facebook group. The stolen funds are quickly fragmented into small transfers across mule accounts before converting to cryptocurrency and leaving the country. By following Ernesto's loss, the story exposes how ordinary citizens, often unwittingly or through coercion, are recruited into mule account networks that power multi-billion-peso fraud operations.

While traditional security awareness relies on static advisories that consumers often ignore, Chaos in Cavite translates complex fraud schemes into a human narrative. Through its graphics and creative narration, the novel weaves the often-fragmented aspects of money mule schemes, from identity trading and victim losses to multi-account laundering, into a single, cohesive story, illustrating how organized crime actively erodes trust across the Philippines' financial ecosystem. By turning financial crime data into an accessible visual story, the book bridges the gap between technical fraud prevention and consumer awareness.

Much of the narrative from Chaos in Cavite is grounded in IDfy’s latest research. According to its joint white paper released with CIBI Information Inc. titled “Mule Hunting: Are We Chasing Ghosts?,” the Philippines risks losing up to PHP 603 billion annually, or nearly 3 percent of national gross domestic product (GDP), to fraud operating through mule accounts. Analyzing Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data from 2025, which covers PHP 24.74 trillion in PESONet and InstaPay transactions, the study identified PHP 1.09 trillion at risk, with 55.4 percent tied to push-payment scams and account takeovers that rely directly on mules to launder illicit capital. Crucially, with fewer than 2 percent of cybercrimes formally reported, mule accounts frequently remain active and reusable for months.

“While technical safeguards and regulatory compliance under AFASA are essential, technology alone cannot solve a problem that heavily relies on human vulnerability. Money mule networks thrive in the shadows because ordinary citizens often don’t realize they are being exploited until it’s too late. With Chaos in Cavite, we wanted to move past abstract security advisories and present the stark reality of digital crime in a format that resonates. By depicting how money moves from a single scam to international illicit networks, we hope to empower consumers and give institutions a clearer line of sight into the human vector of fraud," said Raghu Chandrasekhar, Country Head of IDfy Philippines.

The release underscores IDfy’s broader work to build trust across the Philippines' digital economy. As financial institutions raise safeguards under the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), IDfy urges banks, fintechs, and other financial actors to come together to share intelligence across institutions and deploy advanced technology to outsmart and counter sophisticated perpetrators.

With Chaos in Cavite, IDfy pushes the conversation past pure statistics to give regulators, institutions, and everyday consumers a clear look at the human mechanics of digital crime.

The book will be available to the public digitally for free via https://idfy.ph/chaos-in-cavite-book.

PH Economy Risks Losing PHP 603B Yearly to Digital Fraud Without Stronger Safeguards - Report

Manila, Philippines — The Philippine economy risks losing roughly PHP 603 billion annually, or nearly 3% of national Gross Domestic Product (GDP), to illicit mule account networks without stronger identity safeguards, according to a joint whitepaper released by IDfy Philippines and CIBI Information, Inc.

The report, "Mule Hunting: Are We Chasing Ghosts?," analyzed transaction data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), which saw PHP 24.74 trillion in combined transaction flows through PESONet and InstaPay in 2025. The report noted that about PHP 1.088 trillion in transactions were at risk of digital fraud, with 55.4% directly dependent on authorized push payment (APP) scams and account takeovers (ATO) that require mule accounts to exfiltrate stolen cash.

The vulnerability stems from hyper-accelerated digital adoption. The Philippines surpassed its target to digitize 50% of retail payments three years early, reaching 52.8% in 2023. However, this rapid growth created a gap that transnational syndicates actively exploit.

Despite the scale of the shadow economy, official cybercrime reporting remains low at under 2%. While Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) data indicates 34% of Filipinos suffered financial scam losses, victims rarely file formal complaints due to small transaction values and legal complexity. This allows weaponised mule accounts to remain active and clean for months.

The whitepaper estimates that 60% to 70% of mule accounts involve voluntary participation, driven by a rampant "mule-for-hire" market where verified bank and e-wallet accounts are bulk-purchased for PHP 500 to PHP 5,000, according to NBI data. The remaining 30% to 40% are coerced through sophisticated schemes like romance-investment frauds and fake remote job scams.

Regulatory pressure is rapidly escalating under the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA) and BSP Circular 1213, which fundamentally shift liability for fraud losses from consumers to financial institutions. Institutions that fail to deploy real-time fraud management systems face full, unlimited reimbursement liability for customer losses.

Crucially, the circular restricts SMS and Email OTPs to initial account setups, prohibiting their use for high-risk actions such as fund transfers, payee additions, and credential changes. To secure the digital grid, institutions are urged to adopt multi-layered, resilient authentication that requires server-side biometrics, cryptographic device binding, and real-time AI behavioral risk scoring.

"Clinging to interceptable OTPs is no longer just legacy technology; under AFASA, it is a direct financial liability for institutions," said Raghuraman Chandrashekhar, Country Head of IDfy Philippines. "No single institution can close this gap alone. What works is layering device intelligence, real-time AI transaction monitoring, and biometric verification into a unified defense stack."

Industry experts emphasized that closing the gap requires a multi-layered architecture rather than isolated safeguards. Collaborative systems like Fraud Intelligence Data Sharing (FIDS), AI-driven transaction monitoring, and server-side facial authentication must operate in unison, with the AFASA regulatory framework binding them into an end-to-end defense mechanism that mule networks cannot bypass.

For the full version of the report, visit idfy.ph/mule-hunting-whitepaper-landing.

Taiwan Expo 2026 Brings AI, Cybersecurity and Smart Automation to Philippines as Digital Economy Expands

MANILA, Philippines - As artificial intelligence, automation, and digital services take on a greater role in the Philippine economy, Taiwanese technology companies are bringing enterprise AI, cybersecurity, and smart manufacturing solutions to Manila through Taiwan Expo 2026 in the Philippines.

The technologies arrive as the Philippine digital economy continues to grow. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the country's digital economy reached PHP2.74 trillion in 2025, equivalent to 9.8 percent of gross domestic product, representing 5.4 percent year-on-year growth.

As more businesses move operations and services online, cybersecurity risks are also becoming more sophisticated. In July 2026, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas urged banks and other regulated institutions to strengthen cybersecurity measures in response to risks associated with advances in artificial intelligence, including the possibility of cybercriminals using AI to identify vulnerabilities and automate attacks at greater scale.

Against this backdrop, the Intelligent Technology Pavilion will showcase Taiwanese solutions spanning Artificial Intelligence of Things, edge computing, smart automation, advanced ICT, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure.

Among the technologies being presented are AI-powered person tracking and facial recognition security systems, collaborative robots designed for manufacturing environments, forklift safety technologies for warehouse and logistics operations, and zero-trust cybersecurity frameworks for enterprises.

For Philippine manufacturers and logistics operators, these technologies offer potential applications in productivity, workplace safety and automation. For banks, corporations and other increasingly digital businesses, the cybersecurity technologies provide another layer of solutions for protecting systems, data and connected infrastructure.

The Expo is also building on a proven commercial platform. Taiwan Expo 2025 attracted more than 10,000 visitors and buyers and generated approximately US$53.4 million in business opportunities.

Philippine technology buyers, system integrators, manufacturers, distributors and corporate decision-makers will again have opportunities to meet participating Taiwanese companies directly through the Expo's enhanced Business Matching Program.

Taiwan Expo 2026 brings together more than 125 Taiwanese enterprises at the SMX Convention Center Manila from September 17 to 19.

Project Swipe Safe Strengthens Child Protection in Cagayan de Oro With PLDT, Smart Support

As Cagayan de Oro City continues to strengthen initiatives that protect children from online risks, local government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector are working together to help create a safer digital environment for the youth. In support of the campaign against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC), PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) donated mobile phones and connectivity devices to Xavier Science Foundation, Inc. (XSF) for the implementation of Project Swipe Safe.

Implemented by XSF in partnership with ChildFund Philippines and the City Council for the Protection of Children (CCPC) of Cagayan de Oro City, Project Swipe Safe equips children and young people with practical digital safety skills to help create a safer online environment free from abuse, exploitation, and violence. The donated devices from PLDT and Smart will support facilitators in delivering training sessions and implementing other project initiatives.

"At PLDT and Smart, we promote the use of technology because it enables people to learn, connect, and build communities. But equally important is teaching online safety. By supporting partners like Xavier Science Foundation and initiatives such as Project Swipe Safe, we not only help protect young people but also empower them to become advocates of responsible digital citizenship. We want them to look out for the people they care about and help build a safer digital world," said Roby Alampay, Public Engagement Head at PLDT and Smart.

Developed by ChildFund Australia, the Swipe Safe mobile application and training package was first launched in Vietnam and has since been adopted in several countries across the Asia-Pacific. The Philippines is the latest to implement the program, with Cagayan de Oro City serving as its pilot site.

“The project helps children learn key concepts about the internet, develop personal safety plans, and practice positive online safety behaviors through engaging and meaningful learning experiences,” said Sheila de Lima, Project Manager of Xavier Science Foundation.

The project will be rolled out in five public secondary schools—Mambuaya National High School, PN Roa Sr. National High School, Kauswagan National High School, Lapasan National High School, and Cagayan de Oro City High School – Junior High School Campus—and is expected to reach more than 10,000 learners.

PLDT and Smart continue to strengthen partnerships that help create safer digital spaces for children and young people. The initiative supports the PLDT Group's commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Protecting Children in the Digital Age: Why Online Safety Requires Everyone

The rapid growth of digital technology has transformed how children learn, communicate, create, and connect. But as young people spend more time online, new forms of exploitation, violence, and manipulation are emerging. Addressing these threats requires more than technology alone—it demands cooperation among government, law enforcement, industry, schools, families, and communities.

This was the focus of “Protecting Children in the Digital Age: A Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Online Violence, Child Exploitation and Digital Safety,” led by PROTECTA Pilipinas, a multi-sector alliance spearheaded by PLDT. The forum brought together representatives from government, telecommunications, education, media, law enforcement, mental health, and the private sector to strengthen collective efforts toward a safer digital environment for Filipino children.

Atty. Roy D. Ibay, Smart VP and Head of Regulatory Affairs and lead convenor of PROTECTA, emphasized that no single organization can secure the digital ecosystem alone. Protecting children requires government, industry, civil society, and communities to work together.

PLDT Chief Operating Officer Menardo G. Jimenez Jr. highlighted the moral responsibility of telecommunications companies to help protect children from harmful online platforms and communities. His message was particularly clear: the protection of even one child matters. As online threats evolve beyond exploitation and pornography to include scams, grooming, coercion, and violent content, digital safety strategies must evolve as well.

Usec. Angelo Tapales of the Council for the Welfare of Children stressed that children should not be expected to protect themselves from online risks. Their experiences and voices should inform solutions, but adults must carry the responsibility of creating safer digital spaces.

Law enforcement also pointed to the changing nature of online harm. Lt. Col. Ayn Natuel of the PNP Women and Children Protection Center noted that highly networked online communities can exploit, groom, blackmail, and manipulate vulnerable young people.

The forum underscored that child protection is ultimately a digital resilience issue. Stronger laws, platform accountability, effective content moderation, responsible creators, parental guidance, education, mental health support, and community awareness must work together.

As technology continues to reshape everyday life, the goal should not be to prevent children from accessing the digital world. Instead, society must ensure that children can benefit from technology without having to choose between being connected and being safe.

90% of IT Leaders See Gaps in AI Threat Readiness, Lenovo Brings Single Point of Accountability to Cyber Resiliency

MANILA, Philippines – As organizations in the Philippines accelerate AI adoption and digital workplace transformation, many are finding that cyber resilience is undermined not by a lack of security tools, but by growing operational complexity and threat sophistication. According to recent research, 90% of IT leaders acknowledge gaps in their ability to defend against AI-driven threats.

The need for resilience is becoming more urgent as Philippine enterprises modernize across sectors such as banking, healthcare, retail, business process outsourcing, government, and the public sector. The Department of Information and Communications Technology’s National Cybersecurity Plan 2023-2028 identifies cyber resilience as a national priority, while the National Privacy Commission requires personal information controllers and processors to maintain security incident management policies and submit annual security incident reports. For local organizations, this makes cybersecurity not only an IT priority, but a business continuity, data protection, and compliance imperative.

While security investments continue to grow, many organizations face a different challenge: fragmented accountability. Security operations remain highly distributed and siloed, making it increasingly difficult to coordinate response efforts, maintain end-to-end business continuity, and recover quickly from incidents.

To help organizations address this challenge, Lenovo is expanding its global Security Services portfolio with a revamped cyber resiliency framework and end-to-end security offerings designed to provide a single point of accountability, help organizations reduce security complexity, cut system downtime by up to 50%, and lower remediation costs by up to 40%.

"Security leaders don't need more tools. They need greater confidence that their people, devices, and data remain protected, and clear accountability when issues arise," said Rakshit Ghura, Vice President and General Manager, Digital Workplace Solutions, Lenovo. "When cyber incidents occur, organizations are often left coordinating across multiple vendors, platforms, and support teams. By bringing trusted devices, leading security technologies, expert managed services, and market-leading alliances together under a single operational model, Lenovo helps customers reduce complexity while strengthening resilience, so they can focus on their business and serving customers."

“As AI adoption accelerates across the Philippines, organizations are facing a new reality where cyber resilience is no longer just about having more security tools, but about ensuring that people, devices, data, and operations remain protected even when threats become more sophisticated,” said Michael Ngan, President and General Manager, Lenovo Philippines. “For local enterprises, especially those in sectors such as banking, healthcare, government, education, and business process outsourcing, the ability to respond quickly, maintain continuity, and recover with confidence is becoming critical. Lenovo’s end-to-end cyber resiliency framework helps organizations simplify security operations by bringing trusted devices, leading security technologies, expert services, and ecosystem partners together through a single accountable model.”

Lenovo's approach has been recognized by industry analysts and independent organizations, including recent recognition at the 2026 Fortress Cybersecurity Awards in the cyber resilience, application security, and AI security categories.

According to ISG Research, Lenovo Security Services combines hardware trust, multi-layered protection, and AI-enabled operations within a unified framework that helps organizations improve resilience, maintain business continuity, and reduce operational disruption.

Delivering Managed End-to-End Resilience at Scale

As part of the portfolio expansion, Lenovo is launching Security Services with Absolute, a fully managed end-to-end resilience offering designed to help organizations maintain critical security controls across distributed workforces without increasing demands on internal IT teams. The service enables essential security controls to automatically recover when disrupted, reducing manual intervention and helping organizations maintain consistent protection across complete environments.

The offering is supported by Lenovo's global 24x7x365 Security Operations Center (SOC), where security specialists continuously monitor end-to-end activity and help organizations identify and respond to emerging threats. By combining firmware-level resilience, managed operations, and expert security oversight, Lenovo helps organizations strengthen end-to-end resiliency while reducing operational burden on internal teams.

Extending Visibility and Control Beyond Traditional Security Boundaries

Lenovo is also introducing Lenovo ThinkShield TraceLock, powered by Absolute Security, to help organizations maintain visibility and control of lost, stolen, or disconnected devices that may fall outside the reach of traditional endpoint management and security tools.

Conventional endpoint security depends on an active operating system or network connection. When devices are powered off or disconnected, they can become operational blind spots. ThinkShield TraceLock uses built-in cellular connectivity to let IT teams remotely locate, wake, and wipe devices, helping organizations protect sensitive data and reduce risk when hardware is lost or compromised.

The solution helps organizations strengthen compliance efforts, maintain control of sensitive corporate data, and support security policies even when endpoints are offline.

ThinkShield TraceLock is particularly valuable for organizations operating in highly regulated industries, including healthcare, financial services, government, business process outsourcing, and the public sector, where maintaining control over sensitive data and meeting compliance requirements are business-critical priorities.

ThinkShield TraceLock will be available beginning July 1 on select ThinkPad devices.

A Unified Approach to Cyber Resilience

As cyber threats evolve, resilience is increasingly defined not by the number of security tools an organization deploys, but by how effectively an organization’s security posture is when different capabilities work together to prevent disruption, maintain continuity, and, if needed, accelerate recovery.

Lenovo’s end-to-end cyber resiliency framework helps organizations maximize the value of existing security investments through Identity and Access Management, Data Protection, Extended Detection and Response, Visibility and Risk Management, and Security for AI. Lenovo’s cyber resiliency framework integrates with leading technology providers including Absolute, Cisco, Google, Microsoft, SentinelOne, and Veeam. Rather than requiring customers to coordinate across multiple providers for threat management and security incidents, Lenovo’s AI-enabled SOC delivers a coordinated operational model that combines end-to-end resilience, ongoing protection, and recovery through a single accountable relationship.

The result is a more integrated approach to cyber resilience that helps organizations reduce complexity, improve operational efficiency, and pursue digital transformation initiatives with greater confidence.

Stronger Fraud Prevention, Onboarding Foundations Key to Unlocking Ph’s Next MSME Growth Wave: Industry Leaders

MANILA, Philippines — The financial sector must modernize how it verifies, protects, and extends credit to millions of unique micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to accelerate financial inclusion across the Philippines, industry leaders urged.

At 'The Anatomy of Merchant Trust' executive roundtable co-hosted by IDfy and Mastercard in Manila, executives across banking, fintech, and payments concurred that while consumer adoption of digital payment channels like QR Ph has surged past 57% according to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data, traditional merchant infrastructure must evolve to serve the distinct needs of every small vendor, from urban startups to neighborhood sari-sari stores.

The discussion highlighted a critical systemic challenge currently holding legitimate businesses back. Because traditional merchant identity verification remains fragmented and unverified at the micro-level, it cascades into ecosystem-wide trust issues that compel institutions to enforce rigid, blanket risk policies. Consequently, vast numbers of honest, high-potential merchants who simply lack paper credit histories are turned away from the formal digital economy.

Leaders present at the event highlighted the importance of addressing the gap to complement government-led empowerment efforts. Initiatives like the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) “Tindahan Mo, e-Level Up Mo!” have successfully equipped thousands of small merchants with digital literacy and cashless payment tools. Financial sector leaders emphasized that by streamlining merchant onboarding, such as replacing legacy paper checks and physical audits with automated, risk-based verification, banks and fintechs can seamlessly welcome these newly enabled businesses into the fold.

Internal industry polling conducted during the session underscored this sentiment, with executives identifying business document verification and compliance checks as the single highest-priority workflow for automation, scoring 4.4 out of 5.

Beyond onboarding, attendees noted that safeguarding merchants requires moving from point-in-time checks to continuous protection. By deploying real-time behavioral analytics and continuous fraud monitoring, institutions can defend against threats such as document forgery, deepfakes, and post-approval misuse without creating unnecessary friction for legitimate vendors.

“Merchant trust is no longer a one-time verification exercise—it is a continuous lifecycle,” said Raghuraman Chandrashekhar, PH Country Head of IDfy. “As digital payments scale across the Philippines, institutions must move away from fragmented onboarding and adopt intelligent, risk-based systems that unify identity verification, alternative data, and real-time monitoring. The future of financial inclusion depends on enabling MSMEs to be onboarded quickly and safely at scale.”

To bridge the credit gap for small vendors, financial institutions are increasingly leveraging alternative data, such as digital payment records, utility payments, and transaction footprints. Paired with progressive lending models that scale credit limits as merchants grow, alternative underwriting could unlock formal financing for over one million underserved merchants nationwide.

“Merchant trust extends well beyond onboarding. As more businesses participate in the digital economy, the industry needs to strengthen collaboration across banks, payment providers, fintechs, and technology stakeholders,” said Jason Crasto, Mastercard’s Country Manager for the Philippines. “Each stakeholder brings unique capabilities, perspectives, and expertise to the table. Through stronger public-private collaboration, shared intelligence, and advanced risk solutions, we can build a more secure, scalable, and inclusive digital ecosystem that empowers Philippine MSMEs to grow with confidence.”

By rebuilding onboarding foundations and adopting continuous risk intelligence, industry leaders agreed that the Philippines can transform strict risk barriers into pathways of opportunity, ensuring every legitimate merchant has the access, security, and capital needed to thrive in the digital economy.

For more information on the roundtable discussion, you may visit www.idfy.ph.

Globe Empowers Youth and School Leaders in Capiz and Quezon to Advance Online Safety and Responsible Online Behavior

Globe brought its Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) to Sigma, Capiz, and Tayabas, Quezon, equipping youth leaders and school heads with the knowledge and skills to promote safer, more responsible online behavior. Through the initiative, Globe is expanding digital citizenship education beyond the classroom by empowering community and education leaders to champion digital safety where it matters most.

Building on its previous DTP engagements with more than 650 youth and student participants in Western Visayas early this year, Globe conducted a follow-through session in Sigma, Capiz to complete its training for the municipality's remaining Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials and recent graduates. In Quezon, Globe also conducted DTP sessions for school heads representing municipalities across the province, strengthening their capacity to promote digital citizenship, cybersecurity awareness, and responsible AI use in schools.

"Young leaders can influence how their communities embrace technology. By equipping them with practical knowledge on digital safety, we are investing in a generation that can help create a safer and more responsible online environment for everyone. We hope they will share these lessons with their fellow youth and inspire more Filipinos to become responsible digital citizens," said Jun Juada, Globe Director for Western Visayas.

More than 30 SK officials and recent graduates participated in the follow-through session under Globe's #GoSafeWithGlobe campaign in Sigma, while 41 school heads from 25 public schools representing municipalities across Quezon Province joined the training. The sessions equipped participants to protect personal information, recognize online threats, promote responsible technology use, and foster safer digital environments in their communities and schools.

"This training gave me practical knowledge that I can immediately apply in my daily life and share with fellow youth members in our barangay. As an SK official, I have a responsibility to help create a safer online environment by encouraging others to practice responsible digital behavior," said Ramel Baclor Flores, SK Chairperson of Barangay Poblacion Sur, Municipality of Sigma, Capiz.

The Tayabas session also strengthened the capacity of school heads to guide teachers and learners in responsible technology use as schools continue to integrate digital tools into teaching and learning.

"Preparing our school leaders for today's digital landscape is essential to creating safe and responsible learning environments. Through Globe's Digital Thumbprint Program, our school heads are better equipped to guide teachers and learners in practicing responsible digital citizenship and making informed use of technology," said Celedonio Balderas Jr., Schools Division Superintendent, City of Tayabas.

Now in its 10th year, Globe's award-winning Digital Thumbprint Program continues to evolve to address emerging online challenges. Since its launch in 2016, the initiative has reached over 4,100 schools, engaged 115,394 teachers, and provided access to more than two million students and educators nationwide.

"School leaders are among our strongest partners in promoting responsible digital citizenship. By investing in their digital readiness, we hope to empower more school communities to embrace technology safely, confidently, and responsibly," said Adonis Evangelista, Globe General Manager for South Luzon.

Through the Digital Thumbprint Program and the #GoSafeWithGlobe campaign, Globe continues to work with schools, local government units, and community organizations to equip more Filipinos with the knowledge and confidence to thrive safely in the digital world. Learn more at https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/sustainability/learning/digital-thumbprint.

For more information about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

PLDT, Smart Bring Cyber Safety Training to Visually Impaired Women and Girls

For women and girls with visual impairments, knowing how to stay safe online is essential to using digital platforms for learning, work, and daily life. Equipping them with accessible cybersecurity skills strengthens their confidence and independence, and advances a more inclusive and secure digital Philippines.

As part of their #KonektedforInclusion and #KonektedforSaferInternet programs, PLDT and Smart supported a cyber safety workshop for visually impaired women and girls organized by Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation, Integration and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired (ATRIEV), in partnership with the Quezon City Persons with Disability Affairs Office and APNIC Foundation.

"Cybersecurity awareness is an essential life skill in today’s connected world," said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart. "By empowering persons with disabilities to #BeCyberSmart, we hope to help build a safer digital Philippines where everyone can participate online with confidence."

As part of the Cyber Safety Workshop for Visually Impaired Women and Girls, participants completed PLDT and Smart's #BeCyberSmart module, where they learned practical ways to recognize phishing attempts, avoid online scams, and protect their data from cyber threats.

The three-day, accessibility-centered training equipped participants with real-world digital safety skills and addressed emerging online risks, including AI-generated content, online harassment, and digital exclusion. Designed specifically for women and girls with visual impairment, the workshop highlighted how accessibility and cybersecurity go hand in hand in creating a safer digital environment for all.

"You don't have to share everything online," said Juzztine Mae Bactad, a graphic artist with visual impairment. "Criminals can use that information to compromise your accounts. Turning on multi-factor authentication is one way to better protect them."

Participants also learned to recognize common warning signs of text scams.

"Be wary of text messages saying you won something or offering you a job," said Ma. Angelica Tores, a voice talent with visual impairment. "It's a red flag when you're asked to pay before claiming a prize. If you're applying for work, make sure the employer is legitimate by checking the company's official website or verified social media pages."

In 2026, PLDT and Smart, together with ATRIEV and APNIC Foundation, have equipped persons with disabilities with practical internet safety knowledge through workshops at the Philippine National School for the Blind and the National Vocational Rehabilitation Center.

The initiative forms part of PLDT and Smart's #KonektedforSaferInternet program, which promotes safer digital experiences by equipping Filipinos with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world more securely. Supporting vulnerable sectors through digital inclusion also advances the group's #KonektedforInclusion initiative.

The awareness campaign complements PLDT and Smart's broader cybersecurity efforts to protect customers from digital threats. In the first six months of the year, the PLDT and Smart Cyber Security Operations Group (CSOG) blocked more than 209 billion attempts to access malicious domains, including phishing websites. It has also blacklisted more than 193,000 URLs linked to phishing, spam, and online hoaxes.

Meanwhile, Smart prevented almost 1.6 billion scam text messages from reaching customers and blocked more than 373,000 mobile numbers associated with fraudulent activities.

Together, public awareness initiatives and continued investments in cybersecurity infrastructure reflect the PLDT Group's broader effort to strengthen digital safety for Filipinos by delivering safe and meaningful connections so customers can live a fuller life.

PLDT Group’s Leah Besa Jimenez named Cyber Woman of the Year at PhilSec 2026

PLDT Group’s push for trusted digital services gained fresh recognition as Leah Besa Jimenez, Chief Data Privacy Officer, was named Cyber Woman of the Year at the PhilSec 2026 Awards, highlighting the company’s leadership in cybersecurity and data privacy.

The award places Jimenez among the country’s top cybersecurity leaders, recognized for advancing data privacy and strengthening digital trust within the PLDT Group. Held at the Manila Marriott Hotel, PhilSec is the Philippines’ leading cybersecurity summit, bringing together industry leaders, government officials, and technology stakeholders.

“This recognition honors the work that we do at PLDT,” Jimenez said, emphasizing that privacy sits at the core of the company’s cybersecurity strategy. “It has always been about trust,” she said, noting that every piece of personal data represents an individual whose information must be handled with care.

Under her leadership, the PLDT Group has embedded privacy across operations—from product design to customer engagement. “We continue to build a culture where data protection is not merely a legal obligation but a shared responsibility,” she added. “Technology alone cannot protect privacy… trust is ultimately built by people,” she said.

She added that protecting data is ultimately about people: “Protecting data means protecting human rights and ultimately human dignity.”

The recognition also reflects the growing role of women in cybersecurity leadership, with Jimenez helping drive more inclusive and values-driven leadership in the sector. PLDT and Smart continue to strengthen cybersecurity through investments in infrastructure, governance, and employee awareness. By embedding privacy-by-design and enhancing threat detection, the Group aims to better protect customers, including children, from evolving cyber risks and online sexual abuse and exploitation —supporting responsible innovation and long-term sustainability. “Our goal was never simply compliance, but to earn and preserve trust always,” Jimenez said.

PMA Ramps up Cybersecurity Awareness With #BeCyberSmart

PLDT and Smart are helping the Philippine Military Academy strengthen its cyber resilience by training personnel to #BeCyberSmart. The PMA Information and Communications Technology Center (ICT) recently held an ICT Education and Enhancement Training for the academy's administrative personnel, equipping them with practical skills to recognize and respond to evolving cyber threats.

"As technology continues to evolve, everyone must be aware of the risks that come with it,” said Lt. Col. Harold G. Ricacho, Director of PMA Information and Communications Technology Center. “Cybersecurity is not just about technology. It starts with people who know how to spot scams, protect their privacy, and use digital platforms responsibly. The more informed we are, the stronger our cyber defense becomes."

PLDT and Smart led discussions on identifying scams and fraudulent activities. The workshop particularly focused on social engineering, a form of cyberattack that manipulates victims into revealing sensitive information by exploiting human emotions to gain their trust, create fear, or a sense of urgency. Victims may end up unknowingly disclosing login credentials, downloading malicious files, or transferring money to perpetrators. Phishing, love scams, and investment scams are among the most common forms of social engineering.

The 2025 Threat Landscape Report by the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) found that phishing accounted for 60% of identified initial attack methods across nearly 4,900 analyzed cybersecurity incidents, underscoring how attackers often exploit people to breach systems.

"PLDT and Smart help organizations ward off cyberattacks by developing a cybersecurity culture," said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart. "#BeCyberSmart raises cybersecurity awareness among ordinary Filipinos, so they become less vulnerable to being exploited by criminals."

#BeCyberSmart is part of PLDT and Smart's #KonektedforSaferInternet program, which aims to help the public protect their digital lives by raising awareness of online threats, scams, and cyberattacks. Since its launch in 2018, the initiative has reached more than 140,000 Filipinos through cybersecurity awareness campaigns.

The initiative complements the PLDT Group's cyber defenses, which fended off more than 2 billion cyberattacks in the first half of the year. Its Cyber Security Operations Group also blocked more than 150 billion attempts to open malicious sites.

The training forms part of the PLDT Group's broader efforts to promote cybersecurity awareness among schools, communities, businesses, and government institutions, recognizing that informed users remain a critical line of defense against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

Smart, Sam YG Empower Customers on Scams and Digital Habits

As digital threats grow alongside rapid technological advancement, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is strengthening its push to equip Filipinos with the knowledge and tools to stay safe online.

At its recent Customer Day at the Smart Store in SM North EDSA Cyberzone, the spotlight went beyond connectivity — focusing instead on education and responsible digital behavior, and empowering customers to make the most of today's digital world.

Smart Customer Day is a celebration of the customers who continue to place their trust in Smart. Customers enjoyed exclusive event-only promos on devices and connectivity, while taking part in interactive activities and practical learning sessions designed to help them stay informed, connected, and confident in an increasingly digital world.

Through its SCAMpaign, Smart continues to raise awareness on evolving online threats, helping subscribers recognize, avoid, and report scams in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

Customers also learned practical digital payment habits, including the benefits of cashless transactions, protecting financial information online, and adopting safe payment practices that make everyday transactions more convenient and secure

"This initiative reflects Smart's broader commitment to ensuring that customers are not only connected but also protected and empowered. We hope that through the Smart Customer Day, they can have fun and learn skills that can help them maximize the use of their mobile devices and safely navigate the online world," said Brenda M. Dichoso, FVP for Customer Experience at Smart.

Event host, content creator, and Smart brand ambassador Sam YG underscored the importance of responsible technology use, particularly in an era shaped by information overload and rapidly evolving online risks.

“Ang daming scams, fake news, so it’s also good to have these events so that we could properly discuss how to use this privilege, this power properly," he shared. “Since we are blessed with technology, it’s very important to be vigilant, to check if what we’ve digested is actually true, or baka fake news or scam. While tech is improving, scams are also improving.”

Guests also got to experience emerging technologies firsthand through a demonstration of Rokid augmented reality glasses, showcasing how innovation can enhance productivity, collaboration, and everyday digital experiences.

For long-time Smart subscribers, this focus on education and protection resonates deeply in everyday life — where reliable connectivity powers work, family responsibilities, and digital interactions.

“We won't be staying with Smart for 30 years if we’re not getting the right services. We feel valued as customers,” shared Jackie Rose Caez, emphasizing how dependable service supports her family’s work-from-home and online learning needs.

Subscriber Jose B. Montalbo, Jr., who frequently works in the field, echoed the importance of both connectivity and awareness. “That’s exactly the reason why I stick with Smart. Mas maganda ang signal sa probinsya, you have promos na swak na swak."

By bringing together education, real-life experiences, and expert insights, Smart continues to reinforce its role as a partner in customers’ digital journeys — one that goes beyond service to enable safer, more informed online participation.

“At Smart, we go beyond connectivity by listening to our customers and equipping them with the knowledge to stay safe, informed, and confident in the digital space,” said FVP and co-OIC at Smart Lloyd R. Manaloto.

From scam awareness to social media tips, Smart Customer Day showcased how mobile connectivity empowers everyday life, whether for work, creativity, or staying safe online. With more events lined up nationwide, Smart Customer Day will continue to highlight Smart’s commitment to delivering fast, reliable mobile experiences while bringing joy, learning, and meaningful connection to customers across the country.

Globe Drives Youth-Led Advocacy for Online Safety in Western Visayas

Globe is empowering young Filipinos in Western Visayas to become champions of online safety and responsible digital behavior through its Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), strengthening efforts to create safer and more informed communities in an increasingly connected world.

Through recent learning sessions in Negros Occidental and Iloilo, Globe equipped more than 440 young Filipinos with practical knowledge on cybersecurity, digital responsibility, and safer online behavior, helping shape a generation that is more informed, vigilant, and accountable in the digital space.

At Carlos Hilado Memorial State University in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, 243 first-year Criminology students participated in an interactive DTP session held during the university’s University Week celebration. Conducted in partnership with the school’s Criminology Department under Globe’s Win the Youth Program, the activity focused on pressing digital concerns faced by today’s youth, including online threats, privacy protection, responsible social media use, and maintaining a secure digital footprint.

“As digital platforms become an essential part of everyday life, empowering the youth with the right knowledge and mindset is more important than ever. Through the Digital Thumbprint Program, Globe continues to help young Filipinos become more responsible digital citizens who can contribute to creating safer online communities,” said Jun Juada, Territory Business Head for Western Visayas.

Globe also brought DTP to the SK Federation Youth Summer Summit in Iloilo, where more than 200 youth participants joined discussions on digital citizenship and online safety led by DTP Territory Ambassador Iris Nonato Adorador. The session encouraged youth leaders to champion positive digital behavior and promote cybersecurity awareness within their respective communities.

These initiatives support Globe’s broader advocacy to strengthen digital safety education among Filipino learners and communities nationwide. During Safer Internet Month in February 2026, Globe’s DTP sessions reached over 16,560 students and educators through discussions centered on cybersecurity, privacy, child protection, and responsible technology use.

Since its launch in 2016, the Digital Thumbprint Program has reached more than two million students and educators across the country. The initiative has also been integrated into the Department of Education’s K to 12 curriculum in public schools, reinforcing its role in promoting responsible digital participation among Filipino youth.

Marking its 10th year in 2026, DTP continues to evolve to address emerging digital realities. Its expanded curriculum now includes 36 stackable modules tackling topics such as AI ethics, digital etiquette, Philippine cyber laws, and digital rights, ensuring learners are equipped to navigate the fast-changing digital landscape.

Through sustained collaboration with schools, local government units, youth organizations, and community partners, Globe continues to advance its vision of a safer, kinder, and more digitally empowered Philippines.

For more information about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Smart Blocks Almost a Billion Text Scams in Q1

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has blocked more than 955,000,000 text messages related to scams and phishing activities in the first quarter of 2026. It also blacklisted almost 200,000 mobile numbers linked to fraudulent activities from its network.

“Scammers are exploiting devices that imitate legitimate cell towers to send fraudulent messages directly to nearby phones,” said Menardo 'Butch' Jimenez Jr., PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network. “This is why we continue to strengthen our network defenses while working closely with government partners to help protect our customers.”

Smart, together with its value brand TNT, recently launched anti–text scam awareness videos to amplify the government’s campaign against fraudulent activities carried out using mobile technology.

“Protecting Filipinos from online scams requires strong collaboration across government, industry, and the public,” Jimenez Jr. added. “By raising awareness and strengthening safeguards across networks, we can make it harder for criminals to exploit mobile technologies.”

PLDT and Smart said consumers can spot potential text scams through several warning signs. Fraudulent messages often create urgency—claiming an account will be suspended, rewards points are expiring, or access credentials will be revoked. Others promise prizes or exclusive deals to lure recipients into clicking embedded links.

In some cases, the scams may involve signal hijacking, a tactic that allows criminals to send phishing messages directly to nearby phones.

The method uses devices known as IMSI catchers—rogue base stations that impersonate legitimate cellular towers to trick phones into connecting to them. Once linked, the device can transmit text messages directly to those handsets without relying on the telecom operator’s messaging network. A sudden downgrade from 5G to older networks, such as 2G, before suspicious messages arrive, may indicate the presence of malicious fake cell towers.

The companies urge customers to avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages and to report suspicious texts through Smart’s HULISCAM portal at https://smart.com.ph/huliscam, its verified social media accounts, or the Smart hotline *888.

Palo Alto Networks Launches Idira to Address Growing Identity Security Risks in the AI Era

As artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and digital transformation continue to accelerate across the Philippines, cybersecurity challenges are becoming increasingly complex. In response to these growing risks, Palo Alto Networks has officially launched Idira, its next-generation identity security platform designed to help enterprises discover, control, and govern all identities across their digital environments.

The launch comes at a crucial time as organizations face an explosion of machine and AI identities that significantly expand enterprise attack surfaces. According to industry projections, the Philippine AI market is expected to grow from USD772.1 million in 2024 to around USD3.5 billion by 2030, highlighting the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity and identity governance frameworks.

Palo Alto Networks stated that traditional identity security systems have become outdated and difficult to manage. Many enterprises still rely on fragmented tools and manual processes that create operational bottlenecks and leave critical vulnerabilities unaddressed. Idira aims to eliminate these silos by transforming identity security into a unified and strategic foundation for modern enterprises.

The company’s latest 2026 Identity Security Landscape Report, based on a survey of 2,930 cybersecurity decision-makers worldwide, reveals alarming trends in identity-related threats. One of the most striking findings is that machine identities now outnumber human identities by 109 to 1, with projections indicating a further 77% increase through 2026.

The report also found that 90% of organizations experienced at least one successful identity-related breach within the past year. Additionally, 97% of respondents said fragmented security tools add an average of 12 hours to every identity incident response, slowing down organizations during critical situations.

AI agents are also rapidly becoming part of enterprise operations. The study revealed that 99% of organizations have already adopted AI agents, making them the fastest-growing identity segment with an expected growth rate of 85% this year alone. Despite this rapid adoption, many organizations still lack essential controls such as behavioral monitoring and credential revocation for compromised AI systems.

Another major concern highlighted in the report involves manual certificate management. About 97% of organizations expect financial consequences from failing to automate certificate renewals, with average yearly losses estimated at $272,088 due to certificate-related failures.

As cyber threats continue evolving alongside AI technologies, Idira represents Palo Alto Networks’ effort to modernize identity security and help organizations prepare for the future, including emerging quantum-related cybersecurity challenges.

Helping Retirees Navigate Today's Scam Risks

At a recent CX Caravan stop with the Meralco Employees and Retirees Association (MERA), retirees took part in a practical discussion on a growing digital threat: scams that often arrive disguised as ordinary texts, familiar calls, and messages that seem legitimate at first glance.

Francis Barreso, President of MERA, has seen how convincing these attempts can be—from urgent requests for one-time passwords to calls that use fear and pressure, even loan collection notices sent to people who never took out a loan.

“They don’t always look suspicious at first,” he said. “That’s what makes them dangerous—because they sound urgent, familiar, even legitimate.”

That familiarity is what makes scams so effective. They blend easily into everyday life, catching people off guard in moments when they least expect it.

Through SCAMpaign, one of the key education initiatives under CX Caravan, Smart is helping communities build simple but important habits of caution—never sharing personal information, avoiding unfamiliar numbers, and thinking twice before clicking suspicious links.

Filipino senior citizens are becoming frequent targets of scams, as fraudsters increasingly package deception in ways that appear credible at first glance.

For many retirees, a mobile phone is more than a device—it’s how they manage finances, stay connected with loved ones, and access essential services. Protecting themselves online has become part of protecting daily life.

“This kind of session really helps people like us,” Barreso said. “It gives us the confidence to pause, think twice, and protect ourselves before we act.”

That pause—that moment of second thought—is what makes the difference.

Kristine Generalao, AVP for Customer Experience at Smart Communications, underscored why efforts like SCAMpaign matter.

“Digital trust is now a core part of customer experience. As scams evolve, our responsibility is not only to keep customers connected, but to help them stay informed, vigilant, and empowered,” Generalao said. “SCAMpaign is about turning awareness into everyday action—so customers feel more confident navigating an increasingly complex digital world.”

SCAMpaign is aligned with the PLDT Group’s broader #BeCyberSmart campaign, which empowers customers to protect themselves against online scams and fraud.

Roblox Introduces New Age-Based Accounts and Expanded Parental Controls for Users Under 16

MANILA, Philippines – Roblox Corporation (NYSE: RBLX) today announced two new age-based accounts for younger users on Roblox: Roblox Kids for users ages 5 to 8 and Roblox Select for users ages 9 to 15*. When they roll out in early June, these accounts will more closely align content access, communication settings, and parental controls with a user’s age. They’re also establishing an ongoing selection process for games available to users under 16.

This is a continuation of the work Roblox began earlier this year, becoming the first online gaming platform to require facial age checks to access chat. Since then, over 50% of global and 65% of U.S. daily active users have completed an age check**.

This update will bring age-checks, account-level defaults, content ratings, ongoing moderation, and expanded parental controls together into a unified framework for younger users. Based on Roblox’s selection criteria, the company believes age-checked users under 16 will have access to the vast majority of their favorite games at launch. Age-checked users 16 and older will not see any change to their Roblox experience.

Roblox Kids Accounts (Ages 5–8)

The age-based account system will automatically assign users ages 5 to 8 (as determined through Roblox’s global age-check technology or by a verified parent) to a Roblox Kids account. These accounts will be matched to a dynamically updated catalog containing thousands of select games.

For Roblox Kids accounts:

• Access will be limited to games with a Minimal or Mild content maturity label that have passed their three-step selection process (detailed below).
• All communication is disabled by default.
• The design will include a distinct background color across the app experience to indicate account type.

Roblox Select Accounts (Ages 9–15)

Roblox Select accounts are for users ages 9 to 15, as determined through Roblox’s universal age-check system or by a verified parent. These accounts will be matched to a dynamically updated catalog containing thousands of select games.

For Roblox Select accounts:

• Access will be limited to games with content maturity labels up to and including Moderate that have passed their three-step selection process (detailed below).
• Default communications settings remain unchanged for ages 9-15.
• The design will include a distinct visual treatment to indicate account type.

Account Progression

Roblox’s global age-based account system will automatically progress users as they age.

• Users will automatically transition from Roblox Kids to Roblox Select accounts when they reach age 9.
• Users will automatically transition from Roblox Select to standard Roblox accounts when they reach age 16.

Users who haven’t yet completed an age check will be limited to games rated Minimal or Mild, and all communication will be unavailable. After completing an age check, users will automatically move into the appropriate age-based account.

Continuous Evaluation Process for Dynamic Game Selection

As always, all content uploaded to Roblox goes through their existing moderation systems, including AI asset scanning, ongoing user report review, and multimodal moderation that evaluates scenes in real time for potential policy violations.

For content made available to users under 16, they will apply an additional continuous process that dynamically selects games. This process will include developer verification, extended content evaluation and rating, and additional limits on content more suited to older audiences.

Evaluation Criteria

Content will be automatically included in Roblox Kids and Roblox Select accounts once games are evaluated using additional criteria that include:

• Developer Verification: Creators must complete ID verification, enable two-step verification, and maintain an active Roblox Plus subscription.
• Real-Time Evaluation: Roblox will analyze how users aged 16 and older interact with new games and monitor user reports to assess suitability for younger users.
• Content Maturity Rating and Default Exclusions: Roblox will assign an appropriate content maturity label (Minimal, Mild, or Moderate) for each game. By default, Roblox Kids and Roblox Select accounts will not include games that feature sensitive issues, social hangouts, or free-form drawing games.

Future Ratings Framework Integration

Later this year, Roblox will start transitioning to the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC) framework, the globally recognized standard method for assigning content ratings for digital games and apps. These clear, region-specific ratings, such as ESRB in the U.S. and PEGI in much of Europe and the U.K., reflect local cultural norms and will help families identify age-appropriate content.

Extending Parental Controls

Roblox is also extending its parental controls, which allow parents to manage content ratings, communications settings, and screen-time and spending limits. These tools also transparently show parents which games their child is spending their time in and who their friends are. Under this update, parents will gain one new control and retain access to certain controls until a child turns 16.

• Extending Granular Game Blocking: Parents can block specific individual games through age 15.
• Extending Chat Management: Parents can manage direct chat settings through age 15.
• New Granular Game Approval: Parents can now approve access to specific games that are not otherwise available under the child’s default account type.

This structure is designed to give parents more precise control over the games and friends their child interacts with. Together, these updates are part of the company’s ongoing work to build age-appropriate experiences for all users, apply safety-by-default protections for younger users, and give parents more visibility and control over how their children use Roblox.

Larry Magid, ConnectSafely CEO, complimented Roblox’s updates by sharing: “By combining age assurance, stronger creator accountability, and parental controls, Roblox is helping set a higher standard for how platforms can better protect younger users while preserving positive online experiences.”

"With the launch of Roblox Kids and Roblox Select, we are fundamentally shifting how games are discovered on our platform. Safety isn't a static feature—it’s a journey that evolves as a child grows,” said Matt Kaufman, Chief Safety Officer at Roblox. “While no system is perfect, these age-adaptive accounts are designed to help remove the guesswork for parents and help align users' experiences with their age.”

As part of Roblox’s work to become the world’s healthiest platform for users of all ages, they continually invest in safety by design and empower creativity through technology innovation. The products are thoughtfully designed to cultivate creation, connection, and collaborative play, rather than passive consumption.

*The exact ages, games, and features associated with these accounts will vary by region. Ages are based on age checks; parents can correct a child’s age if necessary.

**As of the seven days ended March 31, 2026.

Resources

• Introducing Roblox Kids and Roblox Select Accounts
• Roblox Safety Center