The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is calling on Congress to expedite the passage of a digital safety law aimed at protecting Filipino internet users. DICT Secretary Henry Aguda made this appeal during the Digital Bayanihan Summit held in Manila.
Proposed Measures for Enhanced Online Safety
I would push and I would aspire na mapasa ‘yan (it would be passed) by third quarter.
Henry Aguda, DICT Secretary
Aguda expressed optimism that the legislation could be enacted by the end of the year, making the internet safer for users. He noted that lawmakers are currently working to consolidate various proposals addressing issues like platform co-location, age restrictions, and content classification.
- Establish a minimum access age of 16 for social media users.
- Require social media companies to have a corporate presence in the Philippines.
- Mandate local content moderation by Filipino personnel.
- Create direct communication channels between the government and platform operators.
Aguda emphasized that platforms tend to comply with regulations once they are established. Until the new law is enacted, the DICT will continue engaging with social media companies to address safety concerns.