Senator Panfilo Lacson seeks ban on social media use among minors to protect mental health

Senator Panfilo Lacson is pushing for legislation that would prohibit minors from using social media platforms, citing the need to protect children from online abuse, cyberbullying, and other digital threats to their mental and emotional well-being.

Under the proposed bill, social media companies would be required to implement stricter age verification systems to prevent individuals under 18 from accessing their services. Lacson expressed concern over the ease with which children can visit websites that expose them to harmful content. "The safety of our youth in the digital world is crucial. We have to take particular measures to shield them from internet threats," Lacson emphasized.

The senator added that violators of the proposed regulation could face penalties under the Data Privacy Act and other existing laws. He also called on the public, especially parents, to support efforts in creating a safer online environment for young users.