National Bureau of Investigation, Child Rescue Coalition forge alliance to combat online child exploitation

NBI Director Melvin Matibag welcomed the collaboration, highlighting the importance of boosting the agency’s capabilities in addressing online child exploitation and harassment. The agreement includes the donation of advanced technology and specialized training from CRC, aimed at improving the NBI’s ability to track and apprehend offenders.

“This collaboration significantly strengthens our capacity to combat child exploitation in the digital space and protect vulnerable victims,” Matibag said, emphasizing the growing threat posed by online perpetrators. He added that the NBI remains committed to pursuing individuals involved in child abuse and exploitation.

CRC, led by CEO Greg Schiller, also commended the NBI’s ongoing efforts under Matibag’s leadership. Alongside the MOU, the two groups signed a Deed of Donation to further support initiatives against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC).

As part of the agreement, CRC donated advanced digital forensic tools, including the MSAB XRY system, to enhance the operations of the NBI’s Violence Against Women and Children Division (VAWCD) and Human Trafficking Division (HTRAD). These technologies are expected to improve the extraction and analysis of digital evidence, leading to faster and more effective investigations.

The partnership also includes intelligence sharing, specialized training for NBI personnel, and closer coordination with international law enforcement agencies.

Matibag reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to strengthening partnerships and intensifying efforts to protect children both in the Philippines and globally. Schiller, meanwhile, stressed the importance of identifying and prosecuting not only offenders but also the global network of buyers driving the exploitation of children.