House probe on fake news spreaders starts January 27

The House of Representatives is set to investigate individuals behind the spread of fake news and disinformation on social media starting Monday, January 27.

Presided over by Laguna Representative Dan Fernandez, the Tri-Committee—comprising the Committees on Public Order, Public Information, and Information and Communications Technology—will hold its first executive briefing.

The probe was prompted by a lawmaker's call to investigate vloggers allegedly disseminating fake news to tarnish the reputation of the Quad Committee.

These vloggers were allegedly funded by outlawed Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) still operating in the country.

Key representatives from major social media platforms have been invited to explain their policies and accountability measures in combating fake news, cyberbullying, and harmful content.

The panel aims to assess the effectiveness of these measures, identify gaps in regulation, and propose legislative solutions.

Fernandez issued a stern warning to those manipulating information for personal or political gain: “Sa mga nagpapalaganap ng kasinungalingan, binabalaan namin kayo. Sisiguraduhin natin na may pananagutan ang mga nagkakalat ng fake news.”

(To those spreading lies, consider this your warning. We will ensure accountability for those disseminating fake news.)

“Hindi natin hahayaang magpatuloy ang sistemang ito kung saan nalilinlang ang ating mga kababayan. Panahon na upang malaman natin ang mga nagpapakalat ng kasinungalingan para sa pansariling interes,” the Laguna lawmaker added.

(We cannot allow a system that deceives our people to persist. It’s time to expose those who spread falsehoods for self-interest.)
 
Topics for discussion include the transparency of social media platforms in detecting and removing misinformation, enforcing penalties against repeat offenders, and the broader implications of disinformation on national security—particularly in the context of the West Philippine Sea dispute.

The dangers of fake news to vulnerable sectors, such as the youth and marginalized communities, will also be addressed. The Tri-Committee is determined to advocate for stricter safeguards and tougher penalties for violators.

Fernandez urged the public to remain vigilant and critical of the information they consume online.

“Ang fake news ay lason na sumisira sa ating demokrasya. Hindi tayo titigil hangga’t mapanagot ang mga nasa likod nito at matiyak na may tamang proteksyon ang ating mga kababayan.”

(Fake news is a poison that undermines our democracy. We will not stop until those responsible are held accountable and safeguards are in place to protect our citizens.) — DVM, GMA Integrated News