House Bill 8262 filed in Congress seeking to Ban Social Media for users under 16

A bill seeking to prohibit children aged 16 and below from accessing social media platforms has been filed in the House of Representatives.

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Safeguarding minors from Social Media

House Bill No. 8262, titled the “Social Media Protection for Minors Act,” was introduced by CIBAC Party-list Rep. Bro. Eddie Villanueva. The measure comes less than a week after Indonesia announced similar regulations set to take effect in 2026.

According to a statement from Villanueva's office, the proposed legislation aims to address growing international concerns regarding the effects of social media on children’s mental health, safety, and development.

Villanueva emphasized the importance of regulating minors’ access to digital platforms, stating that exposure to unmonitored online content presents risks including addiction, harmful material, exploitation, and challenges to personal identity formation. He described the measure as both a moral obligation and a national priority.

House Bill 8262

The bill also highlights the role of parents, educational institutions, and digital platforms in ensuring online safety. Villanueva noted that safeguards must be carefully structured to avoid unintended consequences.

According to the lawmaker, the proposal seeks to avoid heavy-handed measures that could push minors toward less monitored online spaces. 

Villanueva described the bill as part of a broader strategy that includes digital literacy programs, school involvement, and parental guidance to ensure that protective measures do not inadvertently increase children’s vulnerability.

Australia became the first country to implement a social media ban for minors late last year. Similar measures have since been adopted in France and Spain. Malaysia announced plans for a ban in 2024 but has yet to set an implementation date.

Meanwhile, Indonesia’s restrictions are scheduled to take effect on March 28, 2026.

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Source: BatasPH