CAGAYAN de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez has filed Bill No. 11506 aimed at criminalizing the malicious dissemination of fake news, especially content that threatens public order and national security.

Rodriguez emphasized that while freedom of speech is fundamental to democracy, it is not absolute — certain harmful speech, such as false information and incitement to violence, can undermine societal stability.

The bill seeks to address the evolving threats posed by digital disinformation, including deepfakes and AI-generated false content.

Current laws, such as the Cybercrime Prevention Act, are deemed insufficient in tackling the rapid evolution of disinformation campaigns.

Rodriguez warned that fake news can sow confusion, manipulate perceptions, and potentially incite civil unrest.

The bill defines fake news as deliberately false or misleading information presented as fact to deceive or cause harm.

It prohibits the malicious publication or dissemination of such falsehoods, the creation of troll farms or bot networks, and the use of social media to incite violence or discredit institutions.

FAKE NEWS BILL. Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez files Bill No. 11506 to criminalize the malicious spread of fake news, emphasizing the need to balance free speech with safeguarding public order and national security.

Offenders face imprisonment of six to twelve years and fines ranging from P500,000 to P2 million.

The legislation also includes safeguards, excluding satire, parody, personal opinions, and honest mistakes from prosecution.

Judicial oversight and accountability mechanisms are incorporated to prevent abuse.

Rodriguez called for urgent passage of the bill, highlighting its balance between protecting free expression and combating disinformation.

The bill covers major digital platforms like Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and X, and addresses cyber-enabled acts such as the use of bots and coordinated inauthentic behavior.

A joint congressional oversight committee, including civil society and media representatives, will monitor enforcement.

“The bill aims to strengthen legal tools against the malicious spread of false information,” stressed Rodriguez, adding that safeguarding democratic institutions and public safety while respecting legitimate free speech.