Manila: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) clarified that the removal of the online game Gorebox from the Philippines was a mutual decision reached after due process, rather than a unilateral government action.

According to Philippines News Agency, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda, in a radio interview, stated that the agency engaged with the platform's developers, issued a notice, and inquired about measures to prevent the game's harmful effects. Aguda emphasized that the developers were given due process and confidentiality regarding the platform's issues.

The DICT asked developers what actions they would take to mitigate the harmful effects of the platform. Aguda explained that the developers were unable to respond effectively, leading them to voluntarily suggest the removal and blocking of the game, confirming the decision was mutually agreed upon.

Aguda noted that the developers themselves suggested the blocking to avoid any hard feelings. He also mentioned an upcoming meeting with executives of the gaming platform Roblox in Singapore to discuss compliance with two remaining safety requirements.

Roblox has already met three of the five demands previously set by DICT: default parental controls, chat monitoring for violent tendencies, and game classification for various age groups. The remaining requirements involve integrating the National ID system for identity verification and establishing a physical office in the Philippines.

The meeting in Singapore will include Aguda, National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag, representatives from the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, and lawmakers. The delegation aims to gather additional evidence to support ongoing investigations. Aguda warned that if Roblox fails to comply and the meeting is unproductive, the government will make the necessary recommendations.