The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has ordered the restoration of Discord and Reddit access across the Philippines after the platforms agreed to measures aimed at protecting children online.

The order affects people who use Discord for work, school, and online communities, as well as Reddit users who rely on its discussion forums. The DICT said it has directed internet service providers and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to complete the restoration nationwide. It did not say when access would be fully restored.

According to the DICT, Discord and Reddit agreed to set up direct channels, called “green lanes,” through which Philippine authorities can request the rapid removal of child exploitation material, online spaces used to groom minors, and accounts that threaten them.

“Digital accountability isn’t always comfortable, but taking these issues head-on was necessary,” DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said.

The global online platforms also agreed to strengthen age checks and default safety settings for young Filipino users. They will maintain direct contact with the DICT and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to address online safety violations, the agency said.

The DICT described the commitments as binding. Its announcement did not specify deadlines for taking down reported content or explain how the new age checks would work.

Restoring access will allow users and communities to return to the platforms. For those who use them to reach customers or coordinate work, the remaining practical question is when their internet providers will complete the restoration.

Photo by Ralph Olazo on Unsplash

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