Plan International Pilipinas warns of rising AI-enabled online abuse against children ahead of Safer Internet Day
Girl- and child-rights groups Plan International Pilipinas and Consuelo Foundation on Monday, February 16, 2026 warned of escalating AI-enabled online abuse targeting children, saying rapidly evolving technology is exposing minors to new forms of exploitation.
The organizations will convene lawmakers, technology companies, youth leaders, and civil society groups on February 24, 2026 for a Safer Internet Day celebration aimed at strengthening digital safeguards.
They said artificial intelligence tools capable of generating hyper-realistic images, videos, and voice recordings are increasingly being weaponized to exploit, harass, and extort children online.
Among the threats identified are AI-generated sexual images, deepfake content, impersonation scams, and grooming tactics that are more difficult for parents and authorities to detect.
“We are facing a reality where algorithms move faster than our laws, leaving children vulnerable to abuse before we even know the risks exist,” said Pebbles Sanchez-Ogang, executive director of Plan International Pilipinas.
Studies cited by the groups show one in two children has experienced some form of online violence, while seven out of ten girls report online abuse.
Advocates warned that as AI tools lower the barriers to creating manipulated sexual images and videos, girls face heightened risks of image-based abuse, cyberbullying, impersonation, and online blackmail.
Data from the National Coordinating Center Against OSAEC-CSAEM indicates reported cases remain significantly lower than actual incidents, suggesting widespread underreporting of AI-enabled online abuse.
Protecting children in AI-driven digital spaces
Sanchez-Ogang called for stronger collaboration among government, technology companies, communities, and families to ensure innovation does not outpace child protection safeguards.
She emphasized the need for “Smart Tech” that prioritizes safety and “Smart Choices” that help create secure digital environments where children can learn and connect.
The Safer Internet Day celebration, titled “Beyond the Feed: Safeguarding Girls, Children, and Young People in AI-Driven Digital Spaces,” will move discussions beyond awareness toward practical solutions.
Sessions will examine how emerging technologies can improve reporting systems, enhance built-in safeguards, and equip families and communities to respond to online risks.
Youth voices push for accountability
Girl leaders and youth advocates will share insights and recommendations during the event, positioning young people as active partners in shaping safer online spaces.
Organizers said sustained and coordinated action is necessary to uphold children’s rights in an AI-driven environment.
The celebration forms part of Plan International Pilipinas’ #StandWithGirls campaign, a national movement promoting long-term investment in girls’ rights, safety, and leadership.
Founded in 1961, Plan International Pilipinas will mark 65 years of service in the Philippines in June and will highlight initiatives such as SAFE Online, SUFASEC, and Connect2Protect aimed at strengthening online safety.
Consuelo Foundation Managing Director Dr. Mariella Castillo said digital harms carry real-world consequences for children and families.
“What happens on our screens has real-world consequences for our children. ‘Beyond the Feed’ is not just a theme; it is a call to look past the algorithms and see the human cost of unchecked technology,” Castillo said.
