A network of community journalists and alternative media outfits has opposed legislative proposals to regulate social media content, warning that such measures would threaten free expression and press freedom rather than curb disinformation.
In a statement, Altermidya – People’s Alternative Media Network said that while disinformation is a serious concern, efforts to regulate expression are often turned against journalists, human rights defenders, and government critics, instead of those genuinely responsible for spreading falsehoods.
“The Philippines does not need additional laws that could be weaponized against critical voices and dissidents,” the group said, stressing that current legal frameworks already address threats such as incitement to violence and harmful speech. “If anything, the country could use more legislation that strengthens free expression and press freedom.”
The group also pointed to the use of existing laws—specifically cyberlibel provisions under the Anti-Cybercrime Law—as examples of legal tools being misused to suppress dissent rather than protect the public from harm.
According to Altermidya, disinformation is often spread by both irresponsible individuals and those in positions of power who manipulate the truth for political advantage. However, the group warned that “the solution does not lie in granting the State more control over online speech.”
“In a political system where the administration of government is limited to political elites,” the group noted, “such regulatory measures will inevitably be used selectively—shielding allies of those in power while targeting their opponents.”
Altermidya argued that recent history shows how regulating online expression does not serve to protect democratic principles. “If there is one lesson to be drawn from recent history, it is that any attempt to regulate online expression will not protect democracy but will instead threaten press freedom and free expression, exacerbating the very problems it claims to solve.”
Instead of government control, the group called for greater transparency, media literacy, and mechanisms for public accountability—approaches it said would empower citizens and protect fundamental freedoms. “The fight against disinformation should not come at the expense of fundamental freedoms,” Altermidya said.
