The popular gaming platform Roblox may face a nationwide ban in the Philippines due to concerns over child safety, government officials said.
The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has given Roblox 30 days to coordinate with authorities and address reported risks involving minors. If the company fails to comply, officials said a total ban could be enforced.
Authorities warned that the platform has allegedly been used by pedophiles and drug traffickers to target minors. The reported misuse raised concerns about the safety of young users, prompting government action.
CICC Undersecretary Renato “Aboy” Paraiso said the government is prepared to block access to Roblox if necessary. This could include working with telecommunication companies to block servers connected to the platform. Officials also plan to coordinate with digital marketplaces to remove the app from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store if the situation is not resolved.
Paraiso said the government aims to prevent minors in the country from accessing the platform if safety concerns remain unresolved. The possible ban is part of broader efforts to protect children from online threats.
Meanwhile, parents and guardians were advised to remain vigilant and monitor their children’s online activities. Authorities encouraged adults to watch for warning signs or “red flags” while children are playing online games.
The government has not yet announced specific measures Roblox must complete within the 30-day period. However, officials emphasized that protecting minors remains the top priority as discussions between authorities and the platform move forward.
