Manila: Senator Panfilo Lacson has introduced a bill aimed at regulating social media use among minors due to concerns over mental health issues associated with excessive exposure. The proposed legislation highlights the increasing vulnerability of Filipino minors to cyberbullying, body image pressures, and online harassment.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lacson referenced a United Nations Children's Fund study indicating that Filipino minors face significant online risks. Additionally, a report by the Council for the Welfare of Children found that one in three Filipino minors utilizes the internet. The National ICT Household Survey further revealed that 60 percent of children aged 10 to 17 are active internet users.

Lacson pointed out that countries like Australia have enacted measures to manage internet use among minors. He advocated for similar actions in the Philippines to safeguard children's mental and emotional well-being. The bill aims to protect children under 18 from online risks by prohibiting their access to social media platforms.

The proposal includes requirements for social media platforms to implement age verification measures to prevent minors from registering or using their services. Violators of these regulations would face penalties under the Data Privacy Act and other applicable laws.