Manila, Philippines —An estimated 97 million Filipinos in the country are internet users, with nine out of 10 young people already having their own smartphones.
Filipinos also spend an average of nine hours a day online.
Online content is becoming increasingly difficult to limit among young people, including various photos and videos that contain material inappropriate for their age.
Because of this, the Department of Health (DOH) is urging news organizations and journalists to avoid using sensationalized headlines, exaggerated accounts, and overly detailed descriptions of incidents, particularly those involving violence or suicide.
According to health experts, such content may trigger or contribute to serious mental health effects among young people.
They also warned that irresponsible reporting or the improper presentation of information to viewers and listeners could potentially contribute to a 30 percent increase in suicide rates, leading to cases of imitative or copycat suicide.
This comes amid a series of violent incidents in schools involving students, with extensive coverage being seen by children on television and online.
The Palace and various government agencies have previously called on media organizations to avoid airing or publishing such content.
The DOH has also issued an Administrative Order on the ethical reporting and portrayal of suicide in the media, audiovisual materials, and films, which will serve as a guide for media workers and other content creators.
The guidelines include refraining from showing graphic details, such as disturbing images and videos.
Media organizations are also encouraged to include crisis and mental health helplines in reports involving sensitive topics.