MANILA – The House of Representatives is set to investigate online vloggers who allegedly spread false information aimed at discrediting the Quad Committee (QuadComm).
According to House QuadComm chairperson Robert Ace Barbers, the House Committee Rule will establish a Tri Committee to examine vloggers believed to be receiving funding from illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) that continue to operate within the country.
Barbers also indicated that the Tri Committee will develop a regulatory framework to curb the spread of fake news and disinformation by vloggers.
“Kaya natin sinasabi na kailangan magkaroon ng regulatory framework para itong mga vloggers na ito, hindi na umaabuso,” Barbers said in an interview with DZBB AM radio.
Barbers asserted that while criticisms are acceptable, they must be “rooted in the execution of our official duties and responsibilities.”
”The ultimate goal of the trolls is to create chaos and disorder by sowing false information, confusion, fear and slander their subjects. We must not let them win. Law and order must be preserved to ensure peace and stability in society,” Barbers said.
The lawmaker has urged the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to identify and investigate vloggers involved in such activities.
The NBI has indicated that vloggers could face legal consequences for making statements that may incite sedition, as the right to freedom of expression is not without limitations./PN
