The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) lauded Meta—the parent company of Facebook and Instagram— for accelerating its takedown of election-related disinformation, with some removals occurring within an hour.
The move follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. aimed at securing the country’s cyberspace, the DICT said.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda commended Meta’s quick response but also called for its sustained vigilance after the May 12, 2025 elections.
“We appreciate Meta’s swift response. But this urgency must continue beyond the elections. The DICT and CICC [Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center] will keep monitoring Meta’s efforts and expect the same proactive approach against all forms of harmful and misleading content,” Aguda said.
Anchored on his vision of digital bayanihan, Aguda also urged Meta and other social media platforms to join government efforts in stamping out other forms of malicious and harmful content online.
“Disinformation is a long-term threat. We call on Meta and all social media platforms to take part in our digital bayanihan and help protect the integrity of our online spaces—so that the internet stays filled with good vibes,” Aguda said.
Aguda, assistant secretary Renato Paraiso and CICC director Rojun Hosillos met with Genixon David, Meta’s representative for regional engagement, on May 2, 2025 to strengthen existing enforcement mechanisms and improving response timelines.
The DICT and CICC said they remain steadfast in their commitment to fortifying cybersecurity and promoting responsible digital citizenship, driving a safer and more trustworthy Bagong Pilipinas.
