The House of Representatives’ Tri-Committee—comprising the Committees on Public Information, Public Order and Safety, and Information and Communications Technology—has intensified its investigation into the proliferation of disinformation and fake news on social media platforms. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by misleading online content.
In February 2025, the Tri-Committee initiated hearings to examine the spread of fake news and disinformation online. They extended invitations to 40 social media personalities known for their political commentary and influence. However, attendance was notably sparse, with only a few individuals, including columnist Malou Tiquia and vlogger Marc Louie Gamboa, participating in the initial sessions.
The continued absence of key figures prompted the committee to issue subpoenas to compel attendance. Among those subpoenaed were former communications secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles, Lorraine Badoy, Jeffrey Celiz, Sass Rogando Sasot, and Mark Anthony Lopez. Despite these legal summonses, several individuals failed to appear, leading the committee to cite them for contempt and order their detention at the House of Representatives until they agreed to cooperate with the inquiry.
The committee emphasized that the dissemination of disinformation poses a significant threat to national security by eroding public trust and destabilizing institutions. They asserted that compliance with congressional summonses is not only a legal obligation but also a civic duty to uphold democratic principles.
This development highlights the ongoing efforts of the Philippine government to regulate and monitor online content, ensuring that social media platforms do not become conduits for deception and propaganda. The involvement of various stakeholders, including government agencies, social media companies, media organizations, and civil society groups, is crucial in crafting comprehensive strategies to combat disinformation effectively.
The actions taken by the House Tri-Committee reflect a broader commitment to safeguarding the integrity of information disseminated to the public and maintaining the credibility of democratic institutions in the digital age.
