Malacañang on Thursday said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. may support a proposed measure seeking to regulate internet use among minors, especially if it proves beneficial to the youth and addresses mental health concerns.
The statement came in response to a proposal filed by Senator Panfilo Lacson, which aims to curb excessive internet usage by children and teenagers, citing studies linking prolonged online exposure to mental health issues.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President remains committed to policies that promote the welfare of the Filipino people, particularly the youth.
“If this would really cause mental health issues, the President would also amend that,” Castro said during a press briefing.
“He will get support as long as it is for the people, and especially for the youth,” she added.
While the Palace did not give an outright endorsement, it emphasized that the administration is open to initiatives that safeguard children’s well-being as digital consumption continues to rise.
Lacson’s bill proposes time limits and content filters on internet access for minors, as well as educational campaigns for parents and guardians.
The Philippines has one of the highest internet usage rates in Southeast Asia, with studies showing that children as young as seven are regularly exposed to online content.