MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) lifted the temporary ban on Discord after the messaging platform committed to stronger child-safety and counter-extremism measures.
The decision followed a meeting between Philippine officials and senior Discord executives, including the platform’s Asia-Pacific public policy directors.
During the meeting, Discord pledged to address government concerns over nihilistic violent extremism (NVE), online grooming, the radicalization of minors, and threats of violence in schools and communities.
The platform also agreed to strengthen its child-protection measures and improve coordination with local authorities.
DICT Secretary Henry R. Aguda said the government intervention sought to hold digital platforms accountable for user safety.
“We respect freedom of expression, but these rights must never become a shield for predators and groomers,” Aguda said. “If you operate in the Philippines, Filipino children are your responsibility too. Do not mistake distance for immunity. We welcome innovation, but access comes with a responsibility.”
The DICT and CICC said they initially imposed the temporary ban to push Discord to take concrete action on the government’s concerns.
Both agencies will continue monitoring Discord’s compliance alongside other digital platforms as part of efforts to protect users from online threats.
The CICC will release specific details on Discord’s enhanced safety protocols and local reporting channels.
