“Emman Atienza Bill” Seeks to Crack Down on Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
Named after Kim Atienza’s late daughter, the proposed bill aims to strengthen protections against cyberbullying, hate speech, and digital abuse.
Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito has filed the Anti-Online Hate and Harassment Bill, also known as the “Emman Atienza Bill,” which seeks to combat cyberbullying, online defamation, and the spread of hate speech—especially among the country’s most vulnerable users: the youth.
Named after the late daughter of TV personality Kim Atienza, the proposed measure aims to strengthen protections already in place under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013. It expands the definition of online offenses to include cyberlibel, cyberstalking, hate speech, and the non-consensual sharing of private information.
What the "Emman Atienza Bill" Proposes
Under the measure, digital platforms will be required to take down or block harmful content within 24 hours of a verified complaint or court order. Those who fail to comply may face penalties.
The bill also establishes a Victim Support and Protection Program, which will provide psychosocial counseling, legal assistance, and protective services through the DSWD, DOJ, and DOH.
For offenders, penalties range from P50,000 to P200,000 in fines, as well as possible imprisonment. Minors found guilty of online harassment, however, will be required to undergo counseling and education instead.
The measure is named after Emman Atienza, whose untimely death earlier this year reignited discussions on the psychological toll of online harassment. Her case highlighted the urgent need for digital spaces that are not only safe but also accountable.
Sen. Ejercito emphasized that the bill is not meant to limit free speech, but to “encourage accountability and kindness online.” He added, “We need to bring back kindness online, where people pause and think before they post.”
The bill will undergo committee hearings and deliberations in the Senate before moving to the House of Representatives.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, contact the National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline at 1553 (landline), 0966-351-4518 (Globe), or 0908-639-2672 (Smart).