PNP backs ‘Emman Atienza Bill’ to bolster cyberlibel, hate speech laws
Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame. File photo.
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has expressed support for a proposed measure seeking to strengthen laws against cyberlibel and online hate speech, saying it will help promote accountability and responsible behavior in the digital space.
PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Tuesday said the police welcome the “Emman Atienza Bill,” filed by Sen. JV Ejercito, as a timely update to the existing Cybercrime Prevention Act.
“Right now, the Cybercrime Prevention Act already provides a strong legal framework against cyberlibel and other online offenses. However, with the rapid evolution of social media and digital platforms, there are new forms of online hate and harassment that are not fully covered by the existing law,” Nartatez said in a statement.
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He stressed that the measure is not aimed at curtailing free expression but at ensuring accountability and protection for victims of online abuse.
“We recognize the importance of updating our legislation, not necessarily to curtail freedom of expression but to ensure accountability and protection for everyone online,” he said.
Ejercito’s bill, named after the late Emmanuel (Emman) Atienza, who reportedly faced online harassment before her death, seeks to impose tougher penalties on those found guilty of cyberlibel, online defamation, and digital hate speech.
Atienza, a 19-year-old social media personality and mental health advocate, died on Oct. 22 in Los Angeles, California. Her family announced her passing two days later, on Oct. 24.
Nartatez said, “if passed, the ‘Emman Atienza Bill’ could strengthen our efforts to promote responsible online behavior and protect citizens from cyberbullying, online defamation, and hate speech.”
‘Think before you click’
As part of its proactive approach, the PNP’s Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) has been ordered to launch a nationwide “Think Before You Click” information drive in coordination with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of Education (DepEd), and major social media platforms.
The campaign aims to educate the public, especially young internet users, about responsible online conduct and the legal consequences of digital abuse.
“Think before you click. Always be respectful and mindful of what you post online. Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from accountability,” the PNP acting chief.
The PNP also reminded the public that cases of online harassment or threats can be reported through police hotlines and the Unified 911 system. /mr
