Philippines CHR advocates for content creators' free speech rights

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in the Philippines has stated that while there are limits to free speech, law enforcement should not infringe on the rights of content creators. On March 24, 2025, they issued a reminder to authorities to be careful when monitoring online content for disinformation. The CHR acknowledges the risks of false information. They mentioned a recent case where a female vlogger was arrested for editing a quote from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to falsely suggest he supports legalizing illegal drugs. The CHR warns that surveilling content creators could discourage others from expressing their views freely. They emphasized that any government action that restricts speech can create a "chilling effect." This means it can intimidate individuals and limit their freedom of expression. The CHR urged law enforcement to enforce laws carefully without infringing on constitutional rights. In recent months, misinformation has become a major issue in the Philippines. There have been instances of deepfake videos and false claims circulating on social media. Lawmakers are calling for more responsible sharing of information. The CHR plans to monitor the situation closely to ensure that the right to free speech is protected. They believe it's important to strike a balance between fighting misinformation and preserving individual rights.