Posted by ReyFort Media
Philippine Senator JV Ejercito filed the Anti-Online Hate and Harassment Bill, otherwise known as the Emman Atienza Bill. In a press release shared by the Senate of the Philippines on their official website last November 3, the Bill aims to address the “growing wave of cyberbullying, fake news, and online defamation” in the country.
Emman Atienza, the late daughter of the senator’s good friend, broadcaster Kim Atienza, has been a victim of online hate, according to him.
“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. In reality, there are no delete or edit buttons for the ones we have hurt,” he shared.
“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. And as Emman used to always say, to promote ‘a little kindness,’” he added.
The Senate Bill will be expanding the protection of Filipinos under existing laws such as the Cybercrime Prevention Act and the Anti-Bullying Act. In this Bill, the Philippine Senator proposed that various acts such as cyberlibel, online hate speech, and harassment, among others will be “explicitly penalized.”
Victims will also be receiving psychosocial support and counselling as well through the Victim Support and Protection Program–– with the cost of these services to be shouldered by the perpetrators.
Perpetrators can face fines ranging from Php 50,000 to Php 200,000 and imprisonment if proven guilty, according to the Bill. Meanwhile, minors who are involved will undergo counseling and education to stop the negative behavior.
“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. We must prevent another tragedy where our fellowmen, especially the youth, are pushed to the breaking point by the vitriol of online hate,” the Senator shared.
Emman passed away back in October as announced by the family on their social media accounts. Details to her wake was announced by Kuya Kim and the public is invited to visit and bid farewell for one last time. (D. Acierto/push.com/abs-cbn)
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