BACOLOD Rep. Albee Benitez has filed a bill seeking to impose hefty fines of up to ₱1 million on various forms of online harassment, in honor of the late Emmanuelle “Emman” Atienza, who reportedly experienced intense cyberbullying before her passing.

House Bill No. 5750, or the proposed Emman Act, is the counterpart measure to Senator JV Ejercito’s bill protecting young people from online abuse.

The bill strengthens penalties against cyberlibel, online hate speech, harassment, cyberstalking, and the non-consensual sharing of private information. It also punishes expressions that incite hatred or discrimination based on gender or sexuality.

Benitez said the measure draws inspiration from Emman’s story and seeks to create “safer but not silent” digital spaces.

“I believe in free speech, and I believe that social media is a powerful platform—one that has given everyone a bullhorn to share ideas, express opinions, and hold those in power accountable,” he said.

“But it’s heartbreaking that some have used this freedom to harass, malign, and spread hate online,” he added.

To protect legitimate criticism, Benitez clarified that public officials would not be covered by the bill’s protections, ensuring that citizens can continue scrutinizing government leaders.

Under the measure, digital platforms must promptly remove or disable content deemed to constitute online harassment; suspend or ban users proven to have engaged in prohibited acts; deploy trained content flaggers; report on content removal actions; provide reporting and grievance mechanisms; and preserve data that may serve as evidence.

Proposed penalties include:

• Arresto menor or ₱20,000–₱50,000 fine for light violations such as insults not amounting to threats or doxxing
• Arresto mayor and ₱50,000–₱200,000 fine for targeted hate, cyberstalking, or coordinated harassment causing emotional distress
• Prisión mayor and ₱500,000–₱1,000,000 fine for harassment inciting violence or committed by a public officer abusing authority

Minors found violating the law would receive counseling and education on responsible digital behavior, with psychological support from relevant agencies.

Benitez emphasized that the Emman Act is not intended to curtail freedom of expression, but to promote empathy, accountability, and responsible online engagement.