Manila: Two members of the House of Representatives have voiced their support for Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers’ proposal for the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to probe vloggers and internet trolls allegedly disseminating misleading information against the quad committee (quadcom).

According to Philippines News Agency, 1-Rider Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez and House Assistant Majority Leader and Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong underscored the necessity of safeguarding the integrity of public discourse and tackling organized online disinformation efforts. Gutierrez emphasized the importance of balancing freedom of speech with accountability, noting the complexity of jurisdiction, cyberspace, and anonymity issues surrounding social media.

Gutierrez expressed concern over colleagues receiving threats and anonymous messages, stating, “It should be something that no one should be subjected to. Free speech is one thing, but to rely on character assassination i
s a totally different issue.”

Adiong resonated with Gutierrez’s views, highlighting the importance of facts in public discussions and the dangers of disinformation eroding democratic principles. While acknowledging the diversity of opinions in a democratic society, he criticized the role of troll farms and some bloggers in political propaganda efforts aimed at discrediting opponents.

Both lawmakers reiterated their support for Barbers’ initiative to protect public discourse spaces. Barbers, as the quadcom chairperson, previously accused illegal drug syndicates and Philippine offshore gaming operators of financing a coordinated troll campaign to undermine the committee’s ongoing investigation.