Politics · Philippines Bureau
Senate advances bill to restrict minors' social media use
The Philippine Senate has moved forward with legislation that would ban social media access for children under 18 years old. The measure cleared second reading on Wednesday night, bringing it closer to final passage.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Senate approved on second reading Wednesday night Senate Bill No. 2424, or the Child Online Safety and Protection Act, which would prohibit individuals below 18 years old from accessing social media platforms.
Sponsored by Sen. Robinhood Padilla, the measure aims to shield children from online threats and harmful content. The bill's advancement signals growing legislative concern over the impact of social media on young Filipinos' mental health, safety, and development.
The legislation now moves toward third and final reading before it can be transmitted to the House of Representatives for consideration. Lawmakers backing the measure argue that stringent protections are necessary as children face increasing exposure to cyberbullying, predatory behavior, and inappropriate material through social media platforms.
The bill's passage on second reading represents a significant step in the legislative process, though implementation details—including enforcement mechanisms and potential exemptions—remain subjects for further legislative debate.