Philippines: Introduced Anti-Fake News Act of 2017 (SB 1492)

On 21 June 2017, the Anti-Fake News Act of 2017 (SB 1492) was introduced into the Senate of the Philippines. The Act aims to impose penalties on individuals who offer, publish, distribute, circulate, or disseminate false news or information through print, broadcast, or online media. The law applies specifically when such false information causes or tends to cause panic, division, chaos, violence, hate, or exhibits propaganda to tarnish or discredit someone's reputation. To be deemed in violation, the person must knowingly commit such an act with full awareness of the falsehood or with reasonable grounds to believe in its falsity. If enacted, individuals found guilty of these acts may face a fine ranging from PHP 100,000 to PHP 5,000,000 and imprisonment lasting from one to five years.