In Dagupan City, a decision was recently made to reshape the digital landscape for local youth, as the city council enacted an ordinance banning all “Pisonet” computer rental shops. This move, framed under the banner of “the safety of the youth,” sought to curb what officials argued were the dangers associated with these establishments.
The rationale behind the ban was clear: concerns that these spots distracted students from their studies, allowed them to waste valuable time, and potentially exposed them to situations of abuse and other hazards. The action came just one week after a tragic school shooting in central Philippines, an event that has drawn widespread scrutiny regarding the role of violent video games.
“Pisonet,” a portmanteau blending “Peso” and “net,” represents an accessible entry point for many families who lack home computers, while also serving as a popular means for young people to access the internet and engage in online gaming with friends. These shops played a vital role in connecting many students to digital entertainment.
However, the school shooting incident put these rental services directly into the spotlight. As public discourse turned to whether violent games were the catalyst for the violence, the focus shifted from the recreational aspect of these shops to their potential connection with real-world danger.
Investigations into the tragedy revealed disturbing links, pointing toward content like the game Gorebox as a possible factor. While not directly blaming the game itself for the violence, authorities and experts are now focused on a broader issue: how online communities and networks might be used by extremists to radicalize vulnerable young people.
Cybersecurity analyst Art Samaniego Jr. emphasized that law enforcement must look beyond the game content to examine the online communities where these discussions occur, as they may be urging suspects toward violence. The public has largely started concluding that the games are not the direct cause of criminal actions, but rather a symptom of deeper systemic concerns regarding digital safety and radicalization.
In response to this environment of concern, the game Gorebox has faced temporary bans from major platforms like Google and Steam in the Philippines. Although these blocks are easily circumvented through proxy networks and VPNs, the incident has underscored the necessity for a critical examination of how digital spaces intersect with physical safety and social responsibility.
Credit: Tom’s Hardware
