Presdent Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed on Tuesday, Republic Act 9775 or dubbed as the Anti-Child Pronography Act of 2009.
The Anti-Child Pronography Act defines that, “any represenations, be in visual, audio or written, combination thereof, by electronic, mechanical, digital, optical, magnetic or other means, of a child engaged in real or simulated explicit sexual activities.”
Any person who produces, distributes, publishes and commits other related acts would also be subject to penalties. Violators may include internet service providers and internet content hosts.
Under the law, the child victim of these acts is recognized as victim of violent crime and may claim compensation and protection. It also provides mandatory services for victims such as emery shelter, counseling, free legal, medical and psychological services and educational assistance.
Perpetrators may be penalized with fines ranging from P50,000 to P5 million and reclusion perpetua as the highest penalty. (Inquirer)
