Keeping our children safe online: The need for Internet safety education in schools 

(BUSINESS MIRROR) The Internet can be a powerful resource for learning, exploration, and connection, but it also presents a variety of risks, from cyberbullying and misinformation to online predators and inappropriate content. By equipping our children with the skills to identify these risks and handle them appropriately, we can assist them in building the digital literacy and resilience they need to thrive in the online environment.

Empowering our children with Internet safety knowledge and tools has myriad benefits. It can help them avoid potentially harmful or traumatic experiences, build healthy online habits and relationships, and develop the critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate the information and content they encounter. That’s why Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada’s proposal to introduce Internet safety education in the curriculum of elementary and high school students is a timely and crucial step in the right direction. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Bill equips children with knowledge and tools to navigate risky digital world safely, responsibly,” January 28, 2025).

The alarming rise of online dangers, including cyberbullying, online predators, and fake news, necessitates a proactive approach to educate our children on how to navigate the virtual world safely and responsibly. By incorporating Internet safety education into the school curriculum, we can empower our young people with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves from these risks.

Estrada’s Senate Bill No. 2934, also known as the Internet Safety Protection Act, is a comprehensive measure that aims to create a safer online environment for our children. The proposed program will focus on educating students about safe usage, privacy protection, and responsible Internet use, as well as how to identify and avoid online threats. By doing so, we can prevent online-related crimes and promote a culture of digital responsibility among our youth.

The bill’s emphasis on professional training for teachers and staff, as well as public education campaigns for parents, is also a vital component of this initiative. By equipping educators with the necessary knowledge and resources, we can ensure that our children receive consistent guidance and support in navigating the online world.

Moreover, the bill’s coordination with other agencies, such as the Department of Information and Communication Technology, will provide a collaborative approach to addressing online risks and promoting Internet safety. This multi-stakeholder effort is essential in staying ahead of the evolving threats of the virtual world.

The introduction of Internet safety education in our schools is a necessary step in protecting our children from the dangers of the online world. We commend Senator Estrada for his proactive approach to addressing this critical issue, and we urge our lawmakers to support this bill.

Empowering children with the knowledge and tools to navigate the Internet safely is essential in today’s digital age. This empowerment not only enhances their safety but also cultivates resilience, as children learn to navigate challenges and seek help when needed. Ultimately, by investing in their digital education, we prepare them to become responsible, informed digital citizens who can thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.