DILG chief pushes for social media restrictions for children 14 and below

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Thursday voiced his backing for curbing social media use among minors, saying he would support restrictions targeting children aged 14 and below. Speaking before the House of Representatives appropriations committee during hearings on his department's 2027 budget, Remulla indicated strong support for regulatory measures aimed at protecting younger users from potential harms associated with social media platforms.

"I am in total agreement with the ban," Remulla told lawmakers, emphasizing his preference for implementing age-based restrictions on social media access. The statement reflects growing concerns among government officials about the effects of social media on the mental health and development of Filipino children.

Remulla's position aligns with broader international discussions about child safety online and age-appropriate digital access. Several countries have considered or implemented similar restrictions, with policymakers increasingly scrutinizing the impact of social media platforms on young users' psychological well-being and academic performance.

The DILG chief's remarks signal potential government movement toward stricter regulations governing social media use among minors in the Philippines. Such measures would likely require coordination with other agencies and potentially legislative action to establish enforcement mechanisms and penalties for non-compliance by social media platforms operating in the country.