PH'ANG FAKE NEWS AY LASON NA SUMISIRA SA ATING DEMOKRASYA'
The House of Representatives will launch an investigation into the proliferation of fake news and disinformation, focusing on its societal impact and the accountability of those behind it.
Spearheaded by a joint panel comprising the Committees on Public Order, Public Information, and Information and Communications Technology, the probe will begin Monday, January 27, with Sta. Rosa Rep. Dan Fernandez presiding.
Fernandez highlighted the pressing need to combat disinformation, citing its divisive effects on national unity, public order, and democratic processes.
"Ang mga Pilipino ay may karapatan sa katotohanan. Dapat protektahan natin ang ating mga kababayan laban sa mga maling impormasyong nagdudulot ng takot, kalituhan at pagkakawatak-watak ng ating lipunan," he said, emphasizing the need to protect citizens from harmful misinformation.
The inquiry will feature major social media platforms, tasked with explaining their policies on combating fake news, cyberbullying, and harmful content. Lawmakers aim to assess platform accountability and identify legislative gaps that need to be addressed to strengthen protections against disinformation.
Key issues include transparency in detecting and removing false information, enforcement of accountability for repeat offenders such as vloggers and influencers, and the broader implications for national security, including disputes in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The investigation will also focus on the vulnerabilities of marginalized sectors, particularly the youth, to cyberbullying and online harassment. Lawmakers are expected to propose stricter safeguards and penalties for violators.
Fernandez issued a warning to fake news peddlers, declaring, "Sa mga nagpapalaganap ng kasinungalingan, binabalaan namin kayo. Sisiguraduhin natin na may pananagutan ang mga nagkakalat ng fake news."
Calling on Filipinos to remain vigilant, Fernandez described fake news as a "poison" to democracy, affirming Congress' commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting citizens.
