The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) is asking lawmakers to give Philippine authorities jurisdiction over social media, messaging, gaming, and streaming platforms. Executive Director Undersecretary Renato Paraiso told the Senate that current limits make it hard to trace threats and protect kids from violent content, since many platforms operate outside the country and rely only on their own rules.
Anonymous accounts on messaging apps are a big problem. Many users can register without linking to SIM cards or real names, making tracking suspicious activity difficult. With jurisdiction, investigators will be able to identify local offenders, while cases abroad would need stronger international cooperation.
Paraiso also said the 2012 cybercrime law is outdated and needs changes to expand agency mandates. He pointed out gaps in regulation, especially for streaming services. Unlike cinemas, which are regulated, kids can easily access unfiltered content online.
Senator Risa Hontiveros added that expanding the anti-online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) framework could also strengthen tools against nihilistic violent extremism (NVE). She warned that authorities should not rely only on voluntary policies of tech companies.
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If approved, new legislation would give agencies stronger powers to regulate platforms, protect children, and address rising online threats.
