Quezon City:Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the significance of critical thinking and regulatory policies to enhance learners' safety and media literacy during the Philippine Conference on Children and Media 2026. The event, hosted by the National Council for Children's Television (NCCT), took place at the Novotel Manila Araneta City in Quezon City.
According to Philippines News agency, Angara emphasized the necessity of adopting flexible measures and implementing policy changes in educational programs to safeguard children from violence, exploitation, and mental health challenges. He questioned whether current educational preparations are adequate for today's media environment and called for adaptability in curricula and teaching strategies as media evolves.
To promote safety and media literacy among youth, Angara mentioned that the Department of Education (DepEd) has enforced regulations limiting the use of mobile phones and electronic gadgets within school premises under DepEd Order No. 006, series of 2026. Additionally, a Media and Information Literacy module is integrated into the basic education curriculum, although Angara suggested introducing it earlier in education.
Angara urged the need for developing critical thinking skills among children, encouraging them to question, verify, and think critically about media content. He stressed that technology should support learning rather than entertainment or algorithm-driven content from large corporations.
Angara also noted ongoing legislative efforts to reform policies protecting children from online risks, such as grooming and violent extremist recruitment. He cited incidents involving children in conflict with the law linked to online networks, drawing parallels to fraternity-like structures with rites of passage that pressure youth into violence.
He further emphasized parental responsibility in supervising children's online activities, advocating for a more discerning approach to their digital interactions to combat overstimulation and related issues like anxiety and depression.
The NCCT conference aims to bring together various stakeholders to support the creation and broadcast of child-appropriate programs. The event commenced on Sunday and is scheduled to continue until October 28.
