Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito has filed the Anti-Online Hate and Harassment Bill, also known as the “Emman Atienza Bill,” which aims to address cyberbullying, fake news, and online defamation, and foster safer digital spaces.
The proposed measure will be named after the late daughter of TV personality Kim Atienza, Emman, and seeks to expand protections under existing laws such as the Cybercrime Prevention Act and the Anti-Bullying Act.
The bill penalizes acts such as cyberlibel, online hate speech, and harassment, including expressions inciting hatred or discrimination based on one’s gender or sexuality, cyberstalking, and the non-consensual sharing of private information.
“With the primary objective to protect individuals from online harassment, this bill seeks to strengthen the implementation of laws that deter cyberbullying and online hate,” Ejercito explained, as quoted in the Senate’s press release. “And as Emman used to always say, to promote ‘a little kindness.'”
Digital platforms will also be required to take down or block harmful content within 24 hours upon receipt of verified complaints or court orders. Additionally, they must also suspend or ban offending users, preserve digital evidence, and provide accessible reporting for such cases.
Non-compliance may result in penalties for the platform operators. Violators may face fines ranging from P50,000 to P200,000 and possible imprisonment, while minors involved in such offenses will undergo counseling and educational interventions.
The measure also establishes a “Victim Support and Protection Program”, which will provide psychosocial counseling, legal aid, and protection services through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Justice (DOJ), and Department of Health (DOH). The cost of the said services will be the responsibility of the offenders.
Ejercito further clarified that the bill is not intended to restrict free speech but to promote “accountability” and “kindness” in digital spaces.
“We hope Emman’s passing will not be in vain as we push for the immediate passage of this measure. We need to bring back kindness online, where people pause and think before they post. We must prevent another tragedy where our fellowmen, especially the youth, are pushed to the breaking point by the vitriol of online hate,” the senator said.
