A new legislative proposal, the new Philippine bill “Cyber Crime Anti-Dummy Act of 2025” (House Bill 2249), has been introduced by Representative Robert Nazal to amend the existing Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
New Philippine Bill – “Cyber Crime Anti-Dummy Act of 2025”
So, what does the bill aim to do?
The bill seeks to address the growing issue of cybercrimes committed through the use of fake online accounts. The measure aims to enhance platform accountability and impose stricter penalties for these crimes.
A significant increase in cybercrime statistics highlights the need for this legislation. The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group reported 1,458 complaints of online libel in 2024, a 3.9 percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, identity theft cases rose by 12.2 percent from 2022 to 2023, reaching 2,999 complaints.
Moreover, the bill also notes the alarming statistic that an estimated two million Filipino children have been exposed to online sexual abuse or exploitation, often facilitated by fake social media identities.
What are considered “Dummy Accounts”?
The proposed legislation defines “dummy accounts” as profiles with false information, impersonating others, and accounts using automated tools for illegal activities. These accounts could increase penalties by 50%, with penalties varying depending on the crime.
What are the penalties for such crimes?
Penalties for cybercrimes could range from municipal imprisonment to life imprisonment and fines. Online platforms would be required to implement mandatory identity verification, remove illegal content within 24 to 48 hours of receiving a legal notice, and face fines ranging from one million to 20 million pesos.
How does the government plan to act on it?
To support these efforts, the bill would establish a National Digital Forensics Task Force and streamline court procedures for cybercrime cases. Judges would be required to resolve cyber warrant applications within 72 hours, and “Victim Protection Orders” could be issued within 24 hours to provide immediate relief to victims.
While the legislation aims to preserve legitimate anonymity for whistleblowers and journalists, critics may raise concerns about the potential impact on online privacy and freedom of expression due to the new identity verification requirements. The bill is currently awaiting further deliberation in the House of Representatives.
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Source: Gadget Pilipinas
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