Politics · Philippines Bureau
Cayetano urges crackdown on online attacks against Filipino athletes
Senator Pia Cayetano has raised concerns about the rising tide of online harassment targeting Philippine athletes, suggesting stricter legal consequences for perpetrators. The proposal emerged during Senate discussions on supporting the national delegation's performance at international sporting competitions.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Senator Pia Cayetano expressed deep concern Thursday over the prevalence of online harassment directed at Filipino athletes, raising the possibility of criminal penalties for those responsible. Her remarks came during a Senate Committee on Sports hearing that examined the Philippine delegation's participation in the 20th Asian Games.
Cayetano highlighted the emotional toll that social media abuse takes on competing athletes, underscoring the need for stronger protections against online bullying. She questioned whether existing legal frameworks could be strengthened to hold perpetrators accountable through potential jail terms.
Beyond addressing the harassment issue, Cayetano also advocated for enhanced financial support for Filipino athletes. She proposed allocating additional funding to sustain competitors during their training periods, arguing that proper financial backing is essential for athletes to focus on their preparations and perform at their best.
The senator's dual approach—tackling online abuse while improving athlete welfare—reflects broader concerns about creating a more supportive environment for Philippine sports. Her proposals aim to shield athletes from digital harassment while ensuring they have the resources necessary to compete effectively on the international stage.