Vloggers testify on social media misinformation in Philippines

Several online vloggers, including former Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles, appeared at a hearing in the Philippine House of Representatives. This hearing focused on misinformation and disinformation spread through social media. The vloggers had previously missed two hearings but attended after warnings were issued about possible contempt charges for non-compliance. During the hearing, the vloggers took an oath to tell the truth before a three-committee panel. This panel consists of the committee on public order and safety, the public information committee, and the committee on information and communication technology. The committees aim to investigate the spread of false information online. Some lawmakers expressed concerns about the impacts of misinformation. For instance, Rep. Robert Ace Barbers noted the need for regulations similar to those for mainstream media, to maintain ethical standards. Filipinos are among the world's top social media users, making them vulnerable to false information. Recent events have highlighted this issue. A deepfake video falsely suggested President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was preparing for war with China, leading to official denials. Additionally, misinformation circulated after former President Rodrigo Duterte was detained by the International Criminal Court, with false claims about petitions for President Marcos to resign. The Supreme Court clarified that no such petition had been submitted.