JV Ejercito files “Emman Atienza Bill” to combat online hate, protect youth

• Senator JV Ejercito filed the “Emman Atienza Bill” to fight online hate and protect young users
• The bill targets cyberbullying, online defamation, and hate speech
• It requires social media platforms to remove harmful content quickly and provides support for victims
• The measure aims to promote accountability and kindness online while protecting free expression

Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito has filed the Anti-Online Hate and Harassment Bill or the “Emman Atienza Bill,” a measure aimed at curbing cyberbullying, fake news, and online defamation, particularly against young and vulnerable users.

In a press release published on November 3 on the Senate of the Philippines’ website, Ejercito underscored the urgent need to address the growing wave of digital abuse in the country.

“While social media serves as a platform to advocate for truth, it has also given room for ruining reputations, spreading fake news, rumors, false accusations, and violence,” Ejercito said. “In reality, there are no delete or edit buttons for the ones we have hurt.”

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Ejercito noted that the bill was named after Emman Atienza, the late daughter of his friend and TV personality Kim Atienza, who was among many young people who have fallen victim to online bullying.

Citing a UNICEF survey involving over 1,200 Filipino children, Ejercito emphasized the need for safer online environments after findings revealed troubling experiences with harmful content and unsafe digital behavior.

“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,” he said. “And as Emman used to always say, to promote ‘a little kindness.’”

Ejercito added that the country’s massive online population has made Filipinos especially susceptible to online harm. “At the onset of 2024, 73.4 percent of the country's population, or about 86.75 million, are social media users. With approximately 10 hours of internet use daily, the online exposure of Filipinos is among the highest in the world,” he said. “This fact proves that it is crucial for our country to provide stronger online security and protection for users.”

Under Senate Bill No. 1474, the proposed law seeks to expand existing protections under the Cybercrime Prevention Act and the Anti-Bullying Act, penalizing acts such as cyberlibel, online hate speech, cyberstalking, and the non-consensual sharing of private information. It also protects fair commentary, satire, and criticism—particularly those directed at public officials—so long as they are not false or defamatory.

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Digital platforms will be required to remove or block verified harmful content within 24 hours, suspend offending users, preserve evidence, and provide accessible reporting mechanisms. Noncompliance may result in penalties or affect their ability to operate in the Philippines.

To support victims, the bill mandates a Victim Support and Protection Program to be implemented through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), and Department of Justice (DOJ), offering psychosocial and legal aid. The cost of these services will be shouldered by the perpetrators.

Those found guilty of online abuse may face imprisonment and fines ranging from ₱50,000 to ₱200,000, depending on the offense. Cyberlibel remains punishable under the Cybercrime Prevention Act, while minors involved will undergo counseling and education.

Ejercito emphasized that the bill does not aim to restrict speech but to promote accountability and protect human dignity. “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,” he said.

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According to a Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) monitoring report, online libel ranks among the top five cyber-related complaints in the country, with 1,452 recorded cases in 2024. Ejercito noted that many incidents go unreported, adding that the proposed bill aims to strengthen both preventive and protective mechanisms for victims of digital abuse.

Emman Atienza was the daughter of Kim and Felicia Atienza and was known for being open on social media about her experiences growing up in the public eye. Aside from being an active student and creative content creator, she inspired many with her authenticity and courage in speaking about mental health.

Her father, Kuya Kim, is one of the country’s most prominent TV personalities — recognized for his educational and science-oriented programs. Many fans of the Atienza family expressed their condolences through heartfelt messages and tribute posts online.

Manila City Vice Mayor Chi Atienza shared a touching message of sympathy and support for her brother, Kim Atienza, after the passing of his daughter, Emman Atienza. On social media, she posted a heartfelt note alongside a photo of them smiling together.

Earlier, former Manila Mayor and Buhay Party-list Representative Lito Atienza thanked everyone who offered condolences after the passing of his granddaughter, Emman Atienza. During a Facebook live, he expressed appreciation to friends, relatives, and supporters for their messages of comfort and prayers.

Source: KAMI.com.gh