Facebook skips Senate inquiry on online sexual abuse

Senators are considering citing Facebook officials in contempt after it failed to send representatives to a hearing of the Committee on Women and Children as regards online sexual abuse.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, the committee chairperson, said Facebook should explain why it failed to take part in the hearing.

“I confirm that Facebook was sent an invitation by the committee. We will ask them to provide an explanation for their absence and yes, we will consider as advised by Senators Kiko and Pia we will consider holding them in contempt,” Hontiveros said.

Hontiveros’ move came after Senators Francis Pangilinan and Pia Cayetano criticized Facebook’s absence.

“Why isn’t Facebook here? This is most unfortunate. I wish we could get their explanation because it appears like na parang are they above the law?" Pangilinan said.

"Sila ba ay hindi marunong makipagusap sa mga gobyerno na tinututukan at naghahanap ng solusyon dito sa online sexual abuse and exploitation?” he added.

“Here we are, we're just being ignored by platforms that are practically selling also our children,” Cayetano said.

Hontiveros said she would call another hearing but she did not provide a date yet.

“We will call another hearing and make sure that online and social media platforms are present,” Hontiveros said. -NB, GMA News