DICT to push ASEAN-wide rules holding Big Tech accountable

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 03, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency

MANILA — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will push for stronger accountability from major technology platforms across ASEAN, citing the need for faster action against scams, harmful content, deepfakes and other cross-border digital threats.

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the Philippines will raise the issue at upcoming ASEAN meetings following recent talks with Meta and Roblox in Singapore.

Aguda said no ASEAN country can address online threats alone and that a coordinated regional approach could give member states greater leverage over global technology companies.

The proposal follows calls for an ASEAN-wide framework covering harmful content, fraudulent advertisements, misinformation, online scams and other digital risks that cross national borders.

Aguda is expected to raise the issue during the Ministerial Roundtable Meeting on “AI: A Boon or Bane for Information and Media Cooperation” on Oct. 9 to 10 in Metro Manila, as well as the ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting on Harnessing New Media for a Stronger ASEAN Narrative on Oct. 15 to 17.

He said ASEAN’s population of nearly 700 million gives the region significant collective influence in dealing with major online platforms.

During talks in Singapore, Meta committed to strengthen coordination with Philippine authorities on harmful content, child sexual abuse and exploitation material, AI-generated deepfakes and cybercrime-related requests.

Roblox also agreed to work more closely with Philippine authorities on age verification, parental controls and other child safety measures.

Aguda said access to the ASEAN market should come with greater responsibility to protect users in the region.

“If Big Tech wants access to the ASEAN market, accountability to ASEAN governments, and protection of ASEAN citizens must come with that access,” he said.