Globe Opens New Portal to Help Parents Stop Cyberbullying, Intensifies Online Safety Efforts

People now spend more time using gadgets, whether for work, learning, entertainment or getting in touch with loved ones. As digital technologies become more entrenched in Filipinos’ daily lives, their exposure to dangers that lurk online, such as cyberbullying, has also grown. 

Up to 80 percent of young teens in the Philippines experience cyberbullying, according to a 2015 study by child care NGO Stairway Foundation.

To help equip families on protection from online risks, Globe has launched a web portal that provides practical information on cyber safety and online responsibility. 

The site, www.makeitsafe.ph, brings together Globe’s various efforts to raise awareness and educate the public on internet safety, especially cyberbullying, which affects many young people.

This is crucial as the safety of children online largely rests upon those who watch over them. The site aims to arm parents, guardians and caregivers with the know-how that would enable them to get actively involved in teaching online safety and responsibility to children.

The easy-to-navigate site includes a glossary that lists the most popular terms and emojis that the youth currently use in chats and social media. This urban dictionary can help parents and guardians detect if their children are being exposed to offensive language or being bullied online. 

The website also gives free access to eModules from the award-winning Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), a series of workshops developed by Globe based on the Optus Digital Thumbprint in-school program in Australia. It aims to promote digital citizenship and cyber safety among the youth for a safe online experience. The eModules may be used by teachers, parents, the youth, and the general public.

This is aligned with Globe’s commitment to equitable access to quality education and the promotion of lifelong learning under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. 

Since cyberbullying can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses, the portal offers free counseling from KonsultaMD. Anyone can use the promo code MAKEITSAFEPH for a free trial session with a licensed psychologist 24/7, without an appointment.

KonsultaMD is the country’s leading telemedicine platform that provides access to licensed doctors anytime, anywhere.  Consultations may be done via chat, voice or video call.

“We would like the public to learn more about responsible online citizenship to keep netizens safe and protected from cyber violence, scammers, malicious attacks, and other online threats.  At the same time, we are able to provide access to professional help if these concerns are already affecting their mental wellness,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe.

Globe is a strong advocate of cyber safety.  It runs the #makeITsafePH campaign to raise awareness about cybersecurity among consumers and businesses.  It also partnered with local and international organizations to fight online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC).