House Bill wants kids under 13 out of social media

A Filipino lawmaker has sought to restrict minors under 13 years old from using social media sites and apps.

Deputy Speaker and Laguna Rep. Dan Fernandez filed House Bill 5307 or the Social Media Regulation and Protection Act of 2019 to limit the use of social media and to provide protection for children and minors.

Under the proposed House bill, social media companies — such as the likes of Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter — will be required to strengthen its features restricting users under the age of 13.


Under Facebook's Terms of Service, those under 13 are not allowed to create an account.

Fernandez, in the bill filed on November 5, also wants the social media platforms to provide age limitations and to inform their parents when they use the social media sites. He also seeks to prohibit social media companies from colleting personal information from the children without parental consent.

The bill also requires the social media platforms to add "natural stopping points" so users can stop scrolling after a certain amount of consumed content. It also seeks to automatically limit use of social media apps to 30 minutes per day.


"There is a need to pass a legislation that puts children's wellbeing on top priority. The legislation not only strengthens privacy and security, specifically for children and minors, but also champions consumer protection," he explained.

The lawmaker also asked for the assistance of government agencies to implement the rules should it be passed.

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This article first appeared on CNN Philippines.