The gaming application GoreBox has been temporarily banned following the school shooting incident in Tacloban City.
Based on the initial police investigation, one of the two suspects in the shooting was reportedly an avid player of the online game, which features graphic depictions of violence.
According to Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) Undersecretary Aboy Paraiso, authorities have temporarily blocked access to GoreBox while the investigation is ongoing.
Paraiso said the temporary ban will allow authorities to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the game’s possible influence and any connection to the incident.
He emphasized that authorities cannot simply disregard the potential impact of online content that may have contributed to the shooting inside the school.
Aside from the temporary ban, the government is also strengthening monitoring efforts to identify online spaces that may pose risks to young users and to ensure timely intervention when necessary.
Paraiso said the safety of Filipino children who are exposed to the internet remains a top priority.
He added that authorities will continue coordinating with government agencies and stakeholders as the investigation progresses.
(PHOTO COURTESY: STEAM)
