If you use Telegram, you may want to stay up to date on this. The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has confirmed that the messaging app is currently “under observation” by the government, following reports that the platform is allegedly being used for various illegal activities.
Photo: Dima Solomin/Unsplash
According to the DICT, Telegram has been linked to cases involving online gambling, scams, piracy, illegal drug trade, and online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC). Because of these concerns, the agency, together with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), is closely monitoring how the platform is used in the country.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda emphasized that cases involving OSAEC are a serious matter for the government.
“Ang usapin ng online sexual exploitation and abuse of children (OSAEC) ay non-negotiable,” Aguda said, adding that authorities may recommend blocking platforms if such activities continue and there is no cooperation from the company involved.
One of the challenges, according to the DICT, is that Telegram lacks a physical office in the Philippines, which makes coordination and law enforcement efforts more difficult.
CICC Executive Director Renato “Aboy” Paraiso also pointed out the need for authorities to identify individuals who allegedly use the app to commit crimes.
“Hindi puwedeng maging kanlungan ng mga kriminal ang isang app dahil lamang sa kawalan ng koordinasyon,” Paraiso said.
Despite these concerns, both the DICT and CICC clarified that banning Telegram is considered a last resort. The government said it still prefers to work with technology companies and push for stronger cooperation and accountability, rather than immediately blocking platforms.
For now, Telegram remains accessible in the Philippines, and no ban has been announced. Authorities say they will continue monitoring the situation while engaging with tech companies on how to better address online criminal activity.
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