House probe on 'digital blackmail outfits' eyed

A member of the House of Representatives has called for an inquiry into the rise of "digital blackmail outfits" posing as media outlets or platforms for commentaries, which could be used for intimidation or blackmail.

“When a group allegedly prepares damaging material, holds it back, and demands money in exchange for not releasing it, that is not journalism. That is alleged extortion. A journalist investigates to inform the public. An extortionist threatens to profit from fear,” Tingog Party-list Representative Jude Acidre said in a privilege speech.

“This is not about silencing criticism. This is about separating criticism from a crime. The blurring of lines between legitimate journalism and politically motivated digital operations is eroding public trust in media institutions and poisoning public debate, making citizens ask whether exposes are done for truth or for payment,” he added.

The move came following the arrest in an entrapment operation of the founder of Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN) and several others over the alleged payoff demand of P300 million in exchange for not releasing a supposed video about former Speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez.

The concerned individuals have since posted bail.

Acidre said his proposed inquiry would examine whether online commentators, influencers, and digital media personalities who actively shape public opinion should also be held to basic standards of truthfulness, verification, accountability, and transparency.

“Democracy itself is endangered when lies are monetized, and accusation becomes a business model. Social media must never become a marketplace where reputations are held hostage for money,” the lawmaker said.

“Let us choose journalism over blackmail; democracy over digital lawlessness,” he added.—LDF, GMA News