Rep Rufus Rodriguez files HB No. 11506 to criminalize fake news

Reelected Cagayan de Oro City 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez has filed House Bill (HB) No. 11506 to criminalize the dissemination of fake news, especially information that undermines public order or national security.

Rodriguez argues that while freedom of speech is guaranteed by the Constitution, it is not absolute and certain categories of speech are not protected, such as false advertising and incitement to violence.

The lawmaker notes that existing laws like the Revised Penal Code and Republic Act No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act) do not adequately address the evolving threat posed by digital platforms and artificial intelligence in spreading fake news.

HB No. 11506 aims to penalize the deliberate and malicious creation or dissemination of false information that causes public harm, while excluding satire, parody, personal opinions, honest mistakes, and good-faith reporting from its scope.

The bill proposes penalties ranging from six years to 12 years imprisonment and a fine of P500,000 to P2 million for those found guilty of prohibited acts, and includes provisions for judicial safeguards and periodic oversight.

Rodriguez highlighted the recent elections in Cagayan de Oro where technology-driven disinformation campaigns marred the electoral process, leading him to propose stronger measures against such practices.