MALATE, Manila — Following repeated complaints of child safety violations in their website, popular online gaming platform Roblox remains open even as the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) formally put it on notice, warning of potential restrictions or complete suspension of its services in the Philippines.

The stern warning came in the wake of mounting reports that bad actors are utilizing the platform for sexual predation, grooming and even exploitation of Filipino minors.

According to DICT secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda, the crackdown is in direct response to a mandate from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to prioritize protecting youth in the digital space.

In line with the president's directive, Aguda emphasized that the online environment in the country must always remain a safe space where children can play without risk.

“No platform is above the law when it comes to child safety,” he pointed out even as he clarified that he has already outlined to Roblox the strict demands asking the platform to meet the standards and avoid regulatory consequences.

Accordingly, the DICT chief explained that the US-based platform is required to immediately upgrade and enforce more rigorous child safety protocols to prevent grooming and predation.

“Roblox must establish full coordination with Philippine law enforcement and cybercrime authorities to track and mitigate illicit activities (or else) face (the) consequences,” Aguda warned as he made it clear that if Roblox fails to take decisive action to protect Filipino children, the government will not hesitate to restrict or suspend the application nationwide.