The Philippine government has strengthened its efforts against fake news and AI-generated deepfakes, with three key agencies signing a new agreement to improve coordination.
The Presidential Communications Office, Department of Information and Communications Technology, and Department of Justice have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) aimed at addressing the spread of disinformation online.
The agreement adopts a whole-of-government approach to detect, investigate, and act against false information that could threaten public safety, national security, and democratic institutions.
Under the MOA, each agency will take on specific roles. The PCO will lead government communication efforts and public awareness campaigns, while the DICT will work with technology platforms, strengthen cybersecurity measures, and support reporting systems. The DOJ, meanwhile, will handle legal action, including evaluating cases for possible prosecution and coordinating with international partners when needed.
The initiative will also focus on enforcing existing laws, including the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and the Data Privacy Act of 2012, to address deliberate online falsehoods.
Officials emphasized that the effort is not meant to limit free speech but to protect the public from harmful and misleading content. They also highlighted the growing threat posed by AI-generated media, which can make false information appear more convincing.
To ensure proper implementation, an inter-agency committee will be formed to oversee the program, safeguard data privacy, and release regular reports on progress.
The government said the initiative aims to balance enforcement with the protection of constitutional rights, while promoting transparency, accountability, and media literacy among Filipinos.
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