Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito has introduced a proposed measure aimed at addressing the growing issue of online harassment.
Ejercito said the bill was inspired by the late Sparkle artist Emman Atienza, son of GMA trivia master and TV host Kim Atienza, who passed away at the age of 19 on October 24.
“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,” Ejercito said.
Dubbed as the “Emman Atienza Bill,” the measure seeks to establish stronger safeguards against various forms of online abuse — including cyberbullying, fake news, and online defamation.
“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,” the senator added.
Ejercito underscored the importance of digital responsibility, reminding netizens to reflect before they post or comment online.
“In reality, there are no delete or edit buttons for the ones we have hurt,” he said.
Through this measure, Ejercito hopes to promote empathy, accountability, and compassion in the digital space — a call inspired by Emman’s life and legacy.