The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center has given Reddit and Discord 24 hours to designate resident agents or local representatives in the Philippines as authorities seek faster coordination over online safety threats involving children and violent content.
The CICC warned that platforms could face restrictions if they fail to improve coordination with local authorities.
The directive comes as the government intensifies efforts to address online threats involving children, violent extremist content, and activities that may contribute to real-world harm.
In separate letters dated Sept. 21, the CICC ordered Reddit and Discord to designate a resident agent or local representative who can serve as a direct point of contact for Philippine authorities.
CICC Executive Director Renato “Aboy” Paraiso said the move is aimed at ensuring faster coordination when dangerous activities emerge online.
“We are not asking platforms to police the internet for the government but to be reachable, accountable, and responsive when activities on their platforms put Filipino children and communities at risk. When an online threat spills over into the real world, there has to be clear channel for authorities to act,” Paraiso said.
The CICC issued the directive following the Sept. 18 shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato, which added to growing concerns over online spaces being used for grooming, recruitment, and the spread of violent ideologies.
Aside from requiring local representatives, the agency directed Reddit and Discord to submit concrete plans on safety standards, rapid response systems, and age verification or age assurance measures.
The CICC also called for both platforms to participate in a government framework addressing online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, child sexual abuse materials, and nihilistic violence extremism occurring on their platforms.
The agency has tapped the DFA Philippines to facilitate discussions with Reddit, Discord, Meta, and other technology platforms on stronger online safety measures.
