The House of Representatives will investigate vloggers accused of disseminating fake news to discredit the Quad Committee, panel Chairperson Robert Ace Barbers announced on Sunday.
Speaking on Super Radyo DzBB, Barbers revealed that the House Committee Rule will establish a Tri Committee to probe vloggers allegedly backed by illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) still operating in the country.
The investigation aims to create a regulatory framework to prevent the spread of disinformation online. Barbers emphasized the need for accountability among vloggers, saying, “Kaya natin sinasabi na kailangan magkaroon ng regulatory framework para itong mga vloggers na ito, hindi na umaabuso.”
While Barbers did not name specific vloggers, he highlighted the harmful impact of trolls, accusing them of sowing chaos and confusion through false information. “We must not let them win. Law and order must be preserved to ensure peace and stability in society,” he said in a privilege speech delivered on December 4.
The lawmaker also requested the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to identify and investigate individuals involved in such activities. The NBI warned that vloggers could face legal consequences if their statements are deemed to incite sedition, noting that freedom of expression has its limits.
