MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang expressed support for a proposal that would require social media networks operating in the Philippines to secure a legislative franchise from Congress, viewing it as a potential measure to protect citizens and enforce regulatory oversight.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated during a press briefing on Tuesday, September 22, that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will likely support the initiative if it proves beneficial to public safety and interest.
“So, maganda pong panukala iyan,” Castro said.
“Tingnan po natin. Definitely kapag nabasa po siguro ng Pangulo kung ano ang nilalaman ng mga version na iyan, kapag nakitang maganda at nakakabuti sa ating mga kababayan, hindi naman ito maghahadlang,” she added.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has also expressed support for the recommendation. Official discussions are underway to determine how a legislative franchise could grant Philippine authorities clearer jurisdiction over major tech companies.
“Iyan din po ang pinu-propose para hangga’t maaari ay magkaroon tayo ng jurisdiction at authority over these social media platforms,” Castro explained.
The push for tighter regulations follows a tragic shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato that left three students dead and six others wounded. Prior to the incident, the national government had been working on a memorandum of understanding with tech giant Meta to institute proactive safety measures, including early identification of online threats involving minors.
While formal execution of the agreement remains pending, Malacañang remains confident that platform operators are listening to the government and public outcry.
“Hindi lamang po ng ating mga kababayan, pati na po ang mga mambabatas ay nadidinig po nila kung ano po ang nais na mangyari sa kanilang serbisyo dahil kapag hindi po talaga natugunan ang mga– kung mayroon mang pagkukulang, nakakaapekto po ito sa ating lahat lalung-lalo na sa mga kabataan,” Castro remarked.
Palace officials urged social media companies to act swiftly on regulatory requests and cooperate on safety agreements.
Castro emphasized that platform owners must prioritize rapid response, stating that immediate action is necessary “if we are talking about good service.”