Vloggers Must Protect Privacy of Bystanders in Videos, NPC Says
The National Privacy Commission (NPC) advised vloggers and content creators to protect the privacy of bystanders in videos.
Vloggers and digital content creators are now being reminded to take extra care when filming in public, especially when bystanders are caught on camera.
According to new guidelines from the National Privacy Commission (NPC), everyone who creates content using body-worn cameras or other recording devices must make sure they are protecting people’s personal data and privacy rights.
The new rule, called NPC Circular No. 2025-01 or “Guidelines on the Processing of Personal Data Collected Using Body-Worn Cameras,” officially took effect on June 10, 2025. The circular aims to make sure that people’s privacy is respected, even when they happen to appear in someone else’s video.
Content creators are now expected to follow the rules set in the Data Privacy Act of 2012. This includes blurring or masking the faces of people who did not agree to be filmed, especially children or individuals in vulnerable situations.
If someone asks to have their image removed or blurred from a video, vloggers should respect that request.
Content creators must also include clear privacy notices on their platforms. These notices should explain how people can exercise their right to object, ask for content to be removed, or request other actions related to their privacy.
The NPC also reminded vloggers to use technology that allows them to blur faces and protect the identity of people who just happen to be in the background of their videos.
The agency emphasizes the importance of balancing creativity with respect for privacy as more people continue to create content for social media.
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