SENATOR Robinhood Padilla is pushing for swift action on a proposed measure restricting social media access for minors under 18, citing growing concerns over cyberbullying, suicide, mass shootings, and other potential harms associated with social media use.

Padilla, chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, said the measure was first filed during the 19th Congress and refiled in the current 20th Congress. Eleven senators, including Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson and Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, have backed the proposal.

Padilla initially proposed setting the minimum age for social media access at 16 but said he accepted Lacson’s position to cover minors under 18, citing the legal age of adulthood in the Philippines.

He said the Senate must carefully examine evidence on the effects of social media while pursuing decisive measures to protect children from online harm.

Reacting to a House of Representatives proposal to prohibit social media access for children under 13 while imposing restrictions on users aged 13 to 17, Padilla said the Senate would defend its position during deliberations, stressing the need for a stronger approach.

The senator likened social media addiction to drug addiction, arguing that urgent intervention is necessary to address its harmful consequences.

Padilla clarified, however, that the proposed measure would not prohibit educational platforms endorsed by the Department of Education.

Instead, the restrictions would focus on platforms that facilitate social interactions, which he identified as a potential source of harm to minors.

Under the proposed measure, social media companies that violate its requirements could face fines ranging from P5 million to P20 million, plus an additional P100,000 for every day of continued noncompliance.

Padilla also said parents who neglect their responsibilities under the proposed rules could face fines, community service, or mandatory attendance at parental guidance seminars, rather than criminal charges.

He added that the government must establish a fair investigation process, with the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Department of Justice involved in enforcement.

The senator renewed his call for major social media companies, particularly Meta, to establish physical offices in the Philippines, saying local representation would help ensure accountability and compliance with Philippine laws.

However, Padilla rejected proposals to require social media platforms to secure a legislative franchise, warning that such a requirement could unnecessarily restrict communication services that also provide beneficial connections among Filipinos.

He said the measure still needs to undergo further deliberations in the House of Representatives. He also expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Senate leaders, and fellow lawmakers supporting efforts to strengthen online protection for children.

Padilla confirmed that the proposal is also being discussed under the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council, expressing hope that lawmakers would reach a consensus on the best way to protect minors from online harm.