The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said its recent engagement with Facebook-owner Meta Platforms over online disinformation has yet to produce the concrete commitments the Philippine government is seeking.
In a statement issued April 20, the DICT confirmed it received a response from Meta following a joint request by the DICT, Department of Justice (DOJ), and Presidential Communications Office (PCO) for “immediate and enhanced measures” to curb harmful content on the company’s platforms.
While acknowledging Meta’s reply and its existing efforts, the agency said these fall short of the “specific, time-bound actions” requested by the government.
“At a time when false and misleading information can trigger real-world harm that can affect public order and economic stability, we find the general descriptions of existing policies, as underscored in their reply, insufficient,” the DICT said.
The agency stressed that the government’s campaign against disinformation — part of its broader Kontra Fake News initiative — aims to ensure public access to accurate information while holding purveyors of falsehoods accountable. It added that stronger commitments, faster enforcement mechanisms, and measurable outcomes are needed from Meta.
DICT also underscored that while freedom of expression remains protected, it does not cover the deliberate spread of false information that could incite panic, erode trust in institutions, or disrupt public order.
The agency said it will meet with Meta to press for more concrete actions. It warned that if discussions fail to yield improvements, the government may pursue stricter regulatory and enforcement measures.
