DICT plans mandatory verification for all social media users

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is preparing a new policy that could fundamentally change how Filipinos use social media, with plans to require user verification across all major platforms operating in the country.

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda revealed that the agency is close to issuing a department order that would formalize the measure, following internal reviews by its legal and policy teams. If approved, the directive could be released as early as next week.

The proposal is intended to strengthen accountability in online spaces by making it easier to identify users involved in cybercrimes, harassment, and other digital offenses. According to Aguda, anonymous or untraceable accounts often complicate investigations and enforcement efforts.

The push for verification gained urgency amid recent concerns over harmful content generated by artificial intelligence tools, including sexually explicit and non-consensual images linked to Grok, an AI chatbot developed by Elon Musk’s xAI. The issue prompted government action and renewed scrutiny over how platforms manage user behavior and emerging technologies.

Aguda said the policy could also significantly reduce the presence of trolls and automated accounts, which have become increasingly common on social media platforms.

“Verification addresses two major problems: coordinated trolling and AI-powered bots,” he explained, noting that both thrive on anonymity.

While many platforms already have the technical capability to verify users, Aguda pointed out that self-regulation has been limited, largely because high engagement — even from questionable accounts — contributes to platform revenue.

“Social media companies find it difficult to police themselves because traffic drives their business,” he said. “Once there’s a clear government framework, they’ll have a basis to act.”

If implemented, the policy would mark a major shift in digital governance in the Philippines, signaling a move toward tighter oversight of online identities and behavior — and potentially reshaping how users interact in the country’s digital spaces.