Another case of "digital overreach" in the name of security?
That was the reaction of some netizens following the announcement of the Department of Information and Communication (DICT) that it is "studying" banning the messaging application Telegram in the country.
The issue comes amid broader government efforts to strengthen cybersecurity and combat cybercrime.
The DICT said in a statement that it is closely coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to monitor and crack down unlawful activities allegedly proliferating in the app.
Authorities have noted that Telegram has been increasingly used by certain groups to evade detection, particularly in relation to illegal gambling and the distribution of pornographic materials.
However, the DICT emphasized that any move to block or restrict to access Telegram would undergo thorough study and careful legal review.
The agency underscored the need to balance public safety enforcement of existing laws, and the protection of digital rights, including freedom of expression, and access to information.
OpinYonistas, do you believe that banning Telegram is the right way to curb the spread of illegal content online?
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