Manila, March 28 -- The city government has institutionalized its status as Northern Mindanao's first "justice zone" against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC), creating a coordinated legal framework to protect minors and prosecute offenders.

Ordinance No. 2025-743, which was passed during Friday's city council session, formalizes the city's role as the country's 14th designated justice zone under the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC).

The measure is authored by Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez and Councilor Joyleen Mercedes Balaba.

"This creates an inter-agency shield for our children," Rodriguez said in an interview, noting the ordinance strengthens coordination between city hall, police, prosecutors and co...