A person using a smartphone is seen in front of displayed social media logos in this illustration taken on May 25, 2021. — REUTERSTHE House of Representatives will start its probe into what it described as a “massive disinformation machinery” on social media platforms.
In a statement, Sta. Rosa City Rep. Danilo Ramon S. Fernandez said the joint committee on public safety, public information and communications technology will convene on Monday with representatives from “major social media platforms” to formulate policies stifling the spread of disinformation.
The committee plans to discuss efforts to curb the spread of false information on social media platforms and the enforcement of “accountability measures” to persons deliberately spreading disinformation, he said.
They would also discuss the impact of disinformation campaigns on national security, especially on the “West Philippine Sea” dispute, he added, referring to areas of the South China Sea within Manila’s exclusive economic zone.
“Filipinos have the right to the truth. We must protect our fellow citizens against falsehoods that cause fear, confusion, and division within our society,” Mr. Fernandez said in Filipino.
About 62% of Filipinos get their news from social media, particularly on Facebook, according to a 2024 survey by political consultancy firm Publicus Asia.
The widespread use of social media in the country inundates Filipinos with content peddling misinformation and disinformation. This was most pronounced during the 2022 national elections, according to a University of the Philippines report.
Filipinos will again flock to polling stations for the 2025 midterm elections in May, when a new set of congressmen for the House and 12 of the 24-member Senate will be voted on.
“Fake news is a poison destroying our democracy. We will not stop until those responsible are held accountable and our fellow citizens are properly protected,” said Mr. Fernandez. — Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio
