Senator JV Ejercito has filed Senate Bill No. 1474 (Anti-Online Hate and Harassment Bill), also called the Emman Atienza Bill, to address cyberbullying, fake news, and online harassment. The bill aims to protect vulnerable users, especially young people, by improving current laws like the Cybercrime Prevention Act and the Anti-Bullying Act.
The bill is named after Emman Atienza, daughter of TV host Kim Atienza, who was a victim of online bullying. It sets clear penalties for cyberlibel, hate speech, stalking, and sharing private information without consent. It also protects fair opinion and satire, as long as they don’t spread false or harmful claims.
If passed, the law will require digital platforms to take action within 24 hours of verified complaints or court orders. They must remove harmful content, suspend abusive users, keep digital evidence, and offer easy ways to report abuse. Platforms that fail to follow these rules may face penalties or lose their right to operate in the Philippines.
The bill also includes support for victims. Government agencies like the DSWD, DOH, and DOJ will provide counseling, legal help, and protection orders.
Offenders will pay for these services. Penalties range from ₱50,000 to ₱200,000, plus possible jail time depending on the case.
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