Senatorial candidate Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan has expressed strong support for the House of Representatives' ongoing hearings on the widespread proliferation of fake news and online harassment. He underscored the need for accountability among social media platforms that allow disinformation to thrive.
"I fully support the House’s efforts to tackle the growing problem of fake news," Pangilinan stated. "For years, I have faced malicious videos that distort the truth and damage my reputation. Until now, an orchestrated set of social media posts and comments attack me and my family, and the persistence of these lies online is incredibly frustrating."
Pangilinan has long advocated for stronger measures against disinformation. In June 2022, the Senate approved his report as chair of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes. He recommended stricter policies to hold social media giants like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok accountable for the spread of fake news. His report also proposed amendments to the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 to address emerging digital threats.
Among the key recommendations was the presumption of malice if platforms fail to remove libelous content, especially when fake accounts are involved. The report also suggested requiring users to verify their identities before accessing certain services and mandating influencers to disclose financial or material support they receive.
"These House hearings are a step in the right direction," Pangilinan said. "The House committee’s recommendations would go a long way in curbing the spread of false information, not just during elections but in everyday public discourse."
As a victim of online harassment, Pangilinan has taken legal action, filing cyberlibel complaints against YouTube channels such as "Maharlika," "Latest Chika," and "Starlet," which have been linked to defamatory content. He urged social media platforms and advertisers to take greater responsibility in regulating harmful narratives that circulate online.
Pangilinan believes that implementing these reforms will help prevent the weaponization of social media to spread malicious narratives and misinformation. He said this would ultimately safeguard the democratic process.
"We must ensure that our online spaces are safe, truthful, and transparent, and that those who use them to harm others face the consequences," he emphasized.