Lawmaker Urges NBI Probe Into Online Harassment of Persons with Disabilities

MANILA — Rep. Cendaña submitted a complaint to the National Bureau of Investigation on Tuesday, seeking an investigation into digital content creators allegedly engaging in ridicule and harassment of persons with disabilities through their online platforms. The lawmaker, accompanied by disability rights advocates, delivered the complaint at the NBI headquarters in Pasay City as part of efforts to address escalating incidents of mockery targeting the PWD community.

The filing highlights growing concerns among advocacy groups over the proliferation of harmful content on social media, where vloggers and influencers with substantial followings have been accused of using their platforms to demean vulnerable sectors. The complaint also encompasses allegations of homophobic attacks perpetrated through the same channels.

Cendaña's action underscores legislative efforts to hold content creators accountable for material that violates the dignity of persons with disabilities and other marginalized communities. The NBI's investigation is expected to examine whether the conduct violates existing laws protecting citizens from harassment and discrimination.

Disability advocates have increasingly called for stricter enforcement of laws against cyberbullying and online harassment, arguing that social media platforms have become venues for systematic ridicule of PWDs. The complaint represents a formal step toward documenting and addressing such incidents through law enforcement channels.