Solon eyes ‘Emman Atienza Bill’ to curb online hate

Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito on Monday filed a bill seeking to combat online hate, cyberbullying and harassment, with a specific focus on protecting young internet users.

Called the Anti-Online Hate and Harassment Bill, or the “Emman Atienza Bill,” the proposed measure aims to strengthen safeguards against digital abuse and expand the scope of existing laws, including the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

Ejercito said the bill was named in honor of Emman Atienza, the late daughter of television personality Kim Atienza, who was reportedly a victim of online bullying.

“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, adding that “In reality, there are no delete or edit buttons for the ones we have hurt.”

The senator cited a UNICEF survey of over 1,200 Filipino children that revealed troubling experiences with unsafe online behavior and harmful content, underscoring the urgent need to make digital spaces safer.

“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,” Ejercito said.

He noted that the measure also seeks to promote “a little kindness,” a phrase often used by Emman Atienza.

Under Senate Bill (SB) 1474, acts such as cyberlibel, online hate speech, harassment, cyberstalking, and the non-consensual sharing of private information will be explicitly penalized. Expressions that incite hatred or discrimination based on gender, sexuality, or other personal characteristics will also fall under the law’s scope.

The bill mandates that digital platforms must remove or block harmful content within 24 hours of receiving verified complaints or court orders. Platforms must also suspend or ban offending users, preserve digital evidence, and provide accessible reporting systems for victims.

Failure to comply could result in penalties or affect a platform’s authorization to operate in the Philippines.

However, Ejercito stressed that fair commentary, satire and criticism, particularly toward public officials, will remain protected under free speech provisions, provided they do not contain false or defamatory statements.

Perpetrators of online abuse could face imprisonment and fines ranging from P50,000 to P200,000, depending on the gravity of the offense. Minors found guilty will undergo mandatory counseling and education.

The measure also establishes a Victim Support and Protection Program, implemented through the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Health, and the Department of Justice, which will offer psychosocial counseling, legal aid, and assistance in securing protection orders.