Win Gatchalian Pushes Social Media Ban for Kids Under 16 After School Tragedy
WIN GATCHALIAN – Following the deadly school shooting in Tacloban, Win Gatchalian has introduced a measure that aims to ban social media use among children aged 16 and under.
A proposed measure seeking to prohibit children aged 16 and below from using social media has been filed by Senate President Win Gatchalian, following the tragic shooting incident at San Jose National High School in Tacloban.
The proposal came in the wake of the school violence that shocked the country, where two minors allegedly opened fire inside the campus. The attack claimed the lives of three students and left several others injured, raising concerns over the possible factors influencing violent behavior among young people.
In an interview on Thursday, June 25, Gatchalian explained that social media may have a significant impact on the mindset of children and teenagers, potentially contributing to criminal behavior. According to him, online platforms expose young users to various harmful influences that may affect their judgment and decision-making.
He also pointed out that violent online games and interactions with strangers through social media can negatively influence minors.
“Ibig sabihin, puwede kang makipagkilala sa ibang tao, puwede kang makipaglaro sa ibang tao, pero hindi mo alam kung sino itong mga tao na ito. Hindi mo alam kung sila ay bata o matanda,” said Gatchalian.
The senator emphasized that social media is not limited to platforms like Facebook or Instagram. He emphasized that online games, which are among the favorite pastimes of many young people, should also be included in discussions about digital safety because they often involve communication with unknown individuals.
“At base sa mga report na nababasa ko sa ibang bansa, itong mga violent games ay pinapasukan ng mga terrorist at extremist. Dito nila iniimpluwensyahan ‘yong bata na pumasok sa mga hindi magaganda at karahasan,” Gatchalian said.
According to Gatchalian, it is important to stop activities and online environments that could become sources of harmful influence on children before they lead to more serious consequences.
“Isa sa mga ini-file nating panukalang batas, ‘yong pag-banned ng social media sa mga 16 years old and below,” said Gatchalian.
The proposed legislation is one of the measures being pushed to help protect young Filipinos from negative influences online and encourage a safer environment for their development, particularly as concerns over youth violence and online exposure continue to grow.
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