MANILA, Philippines — Senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr. said he is set to tackle the bill which seeks to criminalize the act of spreading or creating false information on the internet and social media platforms.
“It is high time we establish a system of responsibility and accountability in new media,” Revilla said in a statement on Tuesday. “The proliferation and spreading of fake news is a threat not only to political stability, but more importantly, to public and general welfare and national security.”
Revilla was referring to Senate Bill No. 9 or Anti- Fake News bill which aims to penalize those who were found guilty of publishing fake information to mislead the public.
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Revilla, who is expected to chair the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, added that he ensured his “utmost consideration” on the press freedom upon hearing the measure.
The senator also assured the media that the Senate committee will not impinge on the rights of the press, noting that they will enhance and promote these rights.
Under the measure, anyone found guilty of spreading false news will face imprisonment and a fine less than P300,000. /je