THOSE posting false and malicious content on social media platforms may soon have to think twice before doing so, if the plan of the House of Representatives to conduct a joint investigation by the panels on public order, information and communications technology, and public information goes at full throttle.
The three committees are worried the rapid growth of social media platforms has allowed the dissemination of content that can mislead the public, damage individual reputations, raise distrust in institutions, and disrupt public discourse.
House Resolution 00286 explains “false and malicious content has also been exploited by unscrupulous individuals to promote scams, cyberbullying, and other activities that negatively impact public safety and order.”
The lawmakers want to strike a balance between ensuring digital safety and protecting constitutional freedoms, particularly freedom of speech and expression, which are cornerstones of our democratic system.
The tri-committee hearings will identify gaps in existing laws and recommend measures to combat harmful content while upholding the rights of individuals to participate in free and open discourse.
The joint hearing is necessary because of the interconnected nature of technological, informational, and public safety concerns.
The probe, according to the lawmakers, would be guided by six objectives. One, uphold freedom of speech. Two, review existing laws, particularly RA 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. Three, enhance social media platform accountability. Four, combat cybercrimes. And five, protect digital safety and public trust.
The House probe will complement ongoing efforts by the executive branch to strengthen cybersecurity. The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, an attached agency of the Department of Information and Communications Technology is responsible for all functions related to cybersecurity.
The CICC recently warned social media users to disclose deepfakes in posts or face charges. The agency said those using deepfake technology to post content on social media are required to clearly disclose that the material is not real or they could face prosecution under the cybercrime law.
The CICC admits the difficulty in curbing the spread of deepfakes, especially in relation to this year’s midterm elections, but emphasized the government has the tools and expertise to identify and pursue those responsible for creating and distributing deceptive content.
This should serve as a warning to those who want to misuse social media for criminal and dark ends that the government will run after them—and send them to jail.
