Quezon city: Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) chief, Undersecretary Renato 'Aboy' Paraiso, on Monday warned online shopping and social media platforms of their possible shutdown in the Philippines over the sale of illegal items and other 'online harms.' During a press conference, Paraiso stated that the crackdown, described as 'zero tolerance for online harms,' is a collaborative effort involving several government agencies, including the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and other public and private sector partners.
According to Philippines News Agency, Paraiso emphasized the gravity of the situation, indicating that non-compliance could lead to severe consequences, including the blocking of non-compliant sites. The online harms being targeted include the sale of illegal items such as counterfeit products, non-Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved items like vapes or medications, misinformation, and deepfake videos, particularly those of a pornographic nature.
Paraiso mentioned that there might be instances when non-compliant platforms, whether social media or marketing ones, could become inaccessible until they adhere to regulations. Despite this stern warning, Paraiso acknowledged that most platforms have shown a willingness to cooperate with the government. Examples of such cooperation include TikTok's efforts to remove illegal items and deepfake videos, and Shopee's compliance with regulations against illegal vapes.
He expressed gratitude towards private sector partners for their cooperation but pointed out that the collaboration is not without its challenges. The government has certain expectations and demands that need to be fulfilled, and there are contentious issues that require resolution.
One significant initiative aimed at enhancing consumer trust and safety is the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) newly launched E-commerce Philippine Trustmark (EPT). This initiative is designed to help consumers verify the legitimacy of online sellers and platforms. The EPT is awarded to e-commerce entities that meet specific standards, including having a valid business registration, physical address, and contact details.
Marcus Valdez II, DTI Assistant Secretary for E-Commerce Bureau, stated that the introduction of the EPT is an effort to make digital trading safer, thereby preventing sub-standard products, frauds, and scams from being offered online. The EPT's launch coincides with the implementation of the 'Internet Transactions Act,' with DTI Department Order No. 2025-12 making the EPT mandatory as part of the DTI's regulatory authority over internet-based e-commerce.
Currently, the trustmark has been awarded to TikTok, while Shopee's application for the EPT is under review.
