The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) have urged Meta Platforms, the owner of Facebook, to step up efforts against fake news as misleading content spreads across social media in the Philippines.
According to a media release, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda wrote to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, calling for stronger safeguards on platforms such as Facebook. The government warned that disinformation is worsening public anxiety as the country faces energy and economic challenges.
The appeal followed reports from the Presidential Communications Office’s Anti-Fake News Desk, which flagged posts targeting Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other senior officials. Authorities said false claims have also exploited issues like skyrocketing oil prices, potentially triggering confusion, panic, and distrust.
To address the problem, DICT and CICC asked Meta to implement several measures. These include improving early detection of false content, speeding up review and takedown processes, and assigning a dedicated liaison for government coordination. The agencies also want clearer escalation channels and better transparency on how harmful content is handled.
The government cited possible violations of Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, which penalizes the unlawful use of publication to spread false information.
According to Aguda, the goal is to ensure online platforms operate in line with Philippine laws while protecting the public from harmful misinformation.
