MANILA, Philippines — Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian has renewed his call to restrict social media use among Filipino minors, citing its negative impact on academic performance and mental health, and pointing to international precedents such as Indonesia and Australia that have already imposed bans for users under 16.

Gatchalian urged the government to consider stricter regulations on youth access to digital platforms, following Indonesia’s enforcement of a ban on social media use for minors under 16. “Let us not wait for the problem to worsen before we act,” he said in Filipino, stressing the urgency of protecting young Filipinos from the harmful effects of excessive online activity.

The senator cited findings from the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), which revealed that every one-hour increase in leisure use of digital devices among 15-year-old Filipino learners corresponded to a four-point drop in their math scores. He argued that this data underscores the need for proactive measures to safeguard educational outcomes.

Gatchalian also referenced global developments, noting that Australia became the first country to ban minors under 16 from social media in 2024, with the policy taking full effect in December 2025. Indonesia followed suit with its own restrictions, which he believes should serve as models for the Philippines.

The senator emphasized that while social media platforms provide opportunities for communication and learning, they also expose young users to risks such as cyberbullying, misinformation, and addiction. He argued that limiting access could help reduce these risks and promote healthier digital habits among Filipino youth.

Gatchalian’s proposal is expected to spark debate among policymakers, educators, parents, and technology companies, as it raises questions about balancing child protection with digital freedom. Advocates of stricter regulation highlight the growing evidence of social media’s adverse effects on mental health and academic performance, while critics may argue that bans could infringe on rights and limit access to valuable online resources.

The senator’s renewed push reflects a broader global conversation about the role of technology in young people’s lives. As the Philippines grapples with challenges in education and youth development, the proposal to restrict social media use for minors could become a pivotal issue in shaping future digital policies.

If adopted, the measure would mark a significant shift in the country’s approach to digital governance, aligning it with international efforts to protect children in the digital age. For now, Gatchalian’s call serves as a warning that unchecked social media use among Filipino youth may carry long-term consequences for education and well-being.