Cavite 2nd District Representative Lani Mercado-Revilla has urged the creation of an oversight body to make social media platforms more transparent, responsible, and safe.
“Algorithms influence behavior, shape emotions, and quietly affect how people understand the world. When left unchecked, these systems can cause real harm, particularly to children and other vulnerable users,” Mercado-Revilla said.
She introduced House Bill 7300, or the proposed Social Media Accountability Act, which would establish the Social Media Accountability Council (SMAC) under the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).
The council would set safety standards, review platform practices, and enforce compliance with national digital safety rules.
“This measure is not about policing opinions. It is about accountability, making sure that digital systems do not put profit ahead of people, and that users are informed, protected, and empowered,” she clarified.
Mercado-Revilla emphasized the importance of transparency, saying, “Filipino users have the right to know how their data is used and how algorithms influence the content they see every day. Transparency empowers users and helps families make informed choices in an increasingly algorithm-driven digital environment.”
The SMAC would include representatives from the DICT, National Privacy Commission, Department of Health, Department of Justice, Department of Trade and Industry, alongside experts from academe and civil society groups.
It would have authority to issue safety standards, investigate violations, order corrective actions, and impose penalties of up to ₱10 million per violation, including suspension or disabling of harmful platform features.
“The Social Media Accountability Act seeks balance: protecting free expression while ensuring responsibility, safety, and fairness in the digital space. It is a necessary step towards a healthier and more accountable online environment for all Filipinos,” Mercado-Revilla added.