With cyberbullying and online hate speech on the rise, a proposed law seeks to curb incidents with fines reaching up to P1 million.

House Bill 5750, or the “Emman Act,” is the counterpart of Senate Bill 1474 filed by Senator JV Ejercito. The measure is named after Emman Atienza, the 19-year-old daughter of television personality Kim Atienza, who recently died after struggling with mental health issues linked to online bullying.

The bill aims to protect Filipinos from all walks of life—except public officials and employees—from cyber hate, harassment, stalking, threats, and doxxing that can cause emotional, physical, or psychological harm. Prohibited acts also include expressions inciting hatred or discrimination based on gender or sexuality.

Proponent Bacolod Rep. Albee Benitez emphasized that free speech is fundamental but not absolute, and should never be used to harass, malign, or spread hate. He said the law seeks to make online spaces “safer without making them silent” and reminds users that “we can disagree without being disagreeable.”

Under the proposed measure, individuals posting online insults or mockery could face fines up to P50,000 and up to one month in jail. Penalties could increase to P200,000 and six months in prison if the acts cause demonstrable emotional distress, involve doxxing, cyberstalking, or coordinated online harassment campaigns.

Offenders committing incitement, or public officers abusing their position, may face fines of P500,000 to P1 million and up to 12 years in prison.

Minors found guilty would undergo counseling, education on responsible digital use, and psychological support, coordinated by the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council and the Department of Health in consultation with parents, guardians, or schools.

If enacted, digital platforms must promptly remove content that qualifies as cyberbullying or online harassment, suspend or ban offending users, and preserve data for potential court proceedings.