Manila, Philippines – With the continuous growth and development of the modern technology, it has notably eased the conduct of most things—particular in information gathering and communications.
However, it is also undeniably evident how excessive access and use of technology and internet can be harmful as well.
Social media, in particular, have been prone to be used as a platform in spreading fake news and committing crimes like scams and pornography—with minors as its usual victims.
CIBAC Partylist representative Bro. Eddie Villanueva noted that the national government has a moral responsibility to protect minors from unfiltered and harmful results from social media exposure.
In line with this, Villanueva is now pushing for House Bill No. 8262 or the Social Media Protection for Minors Act that seeks the prohibition of social media use for minors 16 years old and below.
Under the proposed measure, creation, usage, and access of accounts in any website, mobile applications, digital services like Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, X, Youtube and similar social media platforms will be prohibited.
The bill also states the obligations of platform operators in ensuring strict implementation of the social media ban.
This includes the creation of a mechanism to detect accounts with fake credentials, establishing of an age assurance system, prompt review of accounts for removal, and transparency reporting to the Department of Information, Communication, Technology.
Parents and guardians also have a responsibility in maintaning regulated social media access of minors.
They, however, do not have criminal, civil, or administrative liability over a violation, but platform operators who have violations will be punish accordingly.
The bill is still pending before the House Committee on Welfare of Children.
On the other hand, the Senate also has its version of the bill, filed by Senate President Pro Tempore Ping Lacson. pushing social media ban for users 18 years old and below.—Mia Layaguin, Eurotv News