By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up cyber monitoring of online sites and other transnational online groups as part of the efforts to protect minors from violent extremism.
PNP Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. made the commitment after it was revealed during the Senate hearing on the Tacloban City gun attack that the two minors involved may have been exposed to the alleged “adult groomer” under the so-called “764 Network,” which has been identified as a transnational online group of violent extremists.
“The service and protection that we in the PNP have committed to provide extend beyond our streets and communities. We are now giving equal focus on cyberspace through close monitoring and intense cyber patrolling,” Nartatez said in a statement on Thursday.
The move follows statements made by Sen. Risa Hontiveros, who disclosed that the alleged groomer of the minor suspects was supposedly connected to the “764 Network.”
“The PNP will coordinate with foreign law enforcement agencies to determine the extent of the group’s operations and identify the individuals behind it,” he added.
This is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., through the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to ensure a thorough investigation into the Tacloban shooting and determine whether organized criminal or extremist groups played a role in the incident.
The two minor suspects are now under the supervision of the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth.
Nartatez said investigators will also determine whether Filipinos are involved in the 764 Network’s activities and whether other minors may have been targeted.
“Our personnel will also look into the possible involvement of Filipinos in this group as well as their supposed target victims,” he said.
