The Philippines’ presidential candidates on debate agreed on at least one thing and that was the need to hold social media firms liable for the spread of disinformation as the country prepares for elections on May 9. With the coronavirus pandemic disrupting traditional campaigning, candidates and supporters are increasingly turning to social media to reach voters, prompting concerns about online hate speech and disinformation. "Social media platforms should be made accountable because they are housing disinformation,” Vice-President and opposition leader Leni Robredo said in the debate.
Retired boxing champion Manny Pacquiao, who is also running for president, said creators of fake news should be punished.
Another candidate, Manila city mayor Francisco Domagoso, also said social media firms should be held accountable for allowing fake accounts on their platforms. - Reuters
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