Malacañang said it is open to banning social media platforms and gaming apps if they fail to stop fake news and online violence. The statement came after the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) raised the idea of restricting Facebook following a deadly shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro explained that proposals must be studied, especially if platforms refuse to cooperate with government efforts. She noted that apps and sites that ignore requests or respond too slowly could face restrictions.
Castro clarified that the government is not targeting critics or opinions. She said the focus is on deliberate disinformation and harmful content, which pose risks to public safety and young people.
The Palace also said other platforms and apps could be reviewed if they endanger children or the country. Facebook is the most used social media site in the Philippines, with around 95 million users.
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The administration is expected to continue talks with agencies and telcos on how to regulate online platforms. Any move to ban apps will depend on whether companies show accountability and act against fake news and violence.
