House approves bill to tighten online safety rules for children

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 12, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Unsplush

The House of Representatives has approved a measure seeking stronger protections for children using social media and online gaming platforms, paving the way for tighter regulation of minors’ digital activities.

House Bill No. 11566, or the proposed Children’s Digital Safety, Protection, and Well-Being Act, was approved on third and final reading on Monday, October 12.

The measure seeks to establish safety standards and regulatory requirements for digital platforms, including safeguards against harmful content and online exploitation.

Under the proposal, children below 13 years old would be prohibited from creating or maintaining social media accounts. Those aged 13 to 17 would be subject to age-appropriate restrictions and additional safeguards, including parental consent requirements.

The bill also seeks to strengthen platform accountability by requiring companies to take steps to protect young users from risks such as cyberbullying, grooming and exposure to harmful online material.

The House measure comes days after the Senate approved its own proposal on October 8. The Senate version imposes stricter limits on minors’ access to social media, including a proposed ban on account creation for those below 18.

With the two chambers adopting different approaches, lawmakers will need to reconcile their respective versions before a final measure can be submitted to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for approval.

The proposed legislation comes amid growing concerns over children’s safety online and the potential risks associated with social media and digital gaming.