DICT presses Meta for faster, concrete action vs disinformation

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The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has raised concerns over the pace and effectiveness of Meta Platforms’s efforts to curb disinformation, saying current measures fall short of addressing urgent risks in the Philippines’ digital space.

In a statement issued April 20, the DICT confirmed it had received a response from Meta following a joint request with the Department of Justice and the Presidential Communications Office for stronger and more immediate action against the spread of harmful online content.

While acknowledging Meta’s outlined initiatives and continued engagement with government agencies, the DICT said the response largely reiterated existing policies and lacked the specific, time-bound commitments sought by authorities.

“At a time when false and misleading information can trigger real-world harm affecting public order and economic stability, general descriptions of existing policies are insufficient,” the agency said.

The government emphasized that disinformation is no longer just a platform issue but a broader societal risk, with potential consequences ranging from public panic to erosion of trust in institutions. The DICT reiterated that while freedom of expression remains protected, it does not cover the deliberate spread of false information that could harm the public.

The statement forms part of the government’s ongoing “Kontra Fake News” campaign, which aims to strengthen accountability mechanisms and ensure that Filipinos have access to accurate and reliable information online.

The DICT said it is set to meet with Meta to push for clearer commitments, faster enforcement mechanisms, and measurable outcomes aligned with current risks. Should discussions fail to produce meaningful improvements, the agency signaled it is prepared to pursue stronger regulatory and enforcement measures.

“Hindi tayo titigil hanggang sa masiguro nating ligtas ang digital space ng bawat Pilipino,” the DICT said, underscoring its continued push for a safer online environment.