House panel backs child protection bills, PCG reorganization measure

MANILA — The House committee on appropriations advanced two significant bills during separate hearings Wednesday, signaling legislative momentum on child welfare and maritime security issues. The first measure establishes safety standards designed to protect children using social media platforms and online gambling sites, addressing vulnerabilities that have drawn scrutiny from child advocacy groups and lawmakers. The second legislation proposes a comprehensive reorganization of the Philippine Coast Guard to enhance operational efficiency and institutional effectiveness. Both measures have received committee approval and move forward in the legislative process. The initiatives reflect growing parliamentary focus on digital age child protection and modernization of government agencies tasked with critical national responsibilities. House leadership introduced the measures as priority agenda items, underscoring their significance within the chamber's legislative calendar. The committee's approval signals sufficient support for advancing the bills to subsequent legislative stages, though further debates and amendments may occur as the measures progress through the remaining congressional procedures.