PLDT, Smart Communications, and Globe Telecom said they are ready to follow a government order to block access to Roblox if talks with regulators fail, as concerns grow over risks to children on the platform.
The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has placed Roblox under close watch after reports of alleged harmful content and interactions involving minors.
The Philippines is seen as a key market for Roblox, with about 5.1 million daily active users this year based on estimates from IconEra, a gaming community.
“We appreciate the readiness of internet service providers to support government measures that aim to keep children safe online,” said Atty. Ella Blanca Lopez, commissioner of the NTC. “The NTC continues to work closely with industry partners as we assess appropriate actions, including potential access restrictions, to address emerging risks on digital platforms.”
RELATED STORY: What the PH government’s warning means for Roblox users
The CICC earlier gave Roblox 30 days to answer allegations involving illegal activities, including cases tied to child exploitation and drug-related incidents targeting minors. The agency shortened it to 15 days when none from Roblox responded but later brought the deadline back to 30 days.
“Globe will comply with the NTC directive as it actively participates in making the online space safe for children,” Globe said. The company added it continues to push efforts against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children and the spread of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials.
“Protecting children online is a responsibility we share with the government and families,” said Atty. Joan de Venecia-Fabul, chief legal counsel and head of Regulatory and Strategic Affairs at PLDT. “We recognize that children are among our most important stakeholders, and we fully support efforts to create a safer digital environment for them.”
PLDT and Smart said they will act once a formal order is issued, citing ongoing cooperation with authorities in blocking access to harmful online content.
Officials and telcos said risks on platforms like Roblox often begin with in-game chats, where bad actors pose as players, then move conversations to private channels. Over time, they may build trust with minors, sometimes offering in-game items, before exposing them to explicit content or illegal activities.
The telcos said they are preparing technical measures, including filtering links, APIs, and IP addresses tied to Roblox, as coordination with regulators continues.
