House OKs child online safety bill with AI safeguards 02.06.2026

The House of Representatives has overwhelmingly approved House Bill No. 9461, the proposed Child Online Safety and Protection Act of 2026, with 284 votes. This bill aims to enhance existing laws, specifically Republic Act No. 11930, by expanding enforcement and updating legal protections to combat child sexual abuse and exploitation online. A significant update includes broadening the definition of child sexual abuse materials to encompass AI-generated, synthetic, and digitally manipulated content, such as deepfakes involving children. The legislation introduces harsher penalties, including life imprisonment and substantial fines for those producing or distributing such materials, and significant prison sentences for possession or knowing access. This measure criminalizes a wider array of offenses, including online grooming and sexual extortion, reflecting a commitment to address evolving technological threats.

















