Reader browsing the web for fake news, Jnaury 30, 2018. ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA — Three committees of the House of Representatives held a closed-door briefing on Monday with representatives of social media platforms and relevant government agencies ahead of a joint probe into fake news and bills seeking to criminalize troll farms.

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The House Committees on Public Order and Safety, Public Information, and Information and Communications Technology are also looking into the creation of a policy framework for social media.

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“Nakita po natin na mayroong mga violation dito sa tinatawag po natin na freedom of expression. Ako, ang nakikita ko, hindi siya absolute… I think it's better that ito pong ating freedom of expression ay ma-check po natin if it is being abused by others who have intent and purposes na talagang durugin ‘yung ating government agencies,” Public Order and Safety panel chairperson Rep. Dan Fernandez said.

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“Marami ng mga trolls eh... And I think we have to criminalize,” he added.

“Gusto natin magkaroon ng code of conduct ang ating mga social media platform users. Second, magkaroon ng disiplina, yung responsible use of these platforms,” said Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, who delivered a privilege speech slamming alleged “narco trolls and vloggers."

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The tri-comm expects to hold its first public hearing next week.

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