Senator Loren Legarda is calling for stricter enforcement of age restrictions on violent video games and tighter regulation of social media access for minors, citing growing concerns over child safety on digital platforms.

Legarda, principal author of Senate Bill No. 1955 or the proposed Children’s Safety and Social Media Act, emphasized the need for stronger safeguards to prevent children under 16 years old from accessing social media and mature-rated online games.

She also proposed the implementation of stricter age verification systems similar to those used by financial technology companies.

The measure comes amid renewed public concern following a shooting incident in Tacloban City, which Legarda said should be viewed within a broader context of youth mental health and exposure to harmful content online.

The senator stressed that violent behavior among minors is not solely linked to video games or social media but may also stem from deeper issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, and bullying.

She cited studies in pediatric health research indicating that warning signs are often overlooked, leading to unaddressed behavioral and emotional problems.

Legarda also raised concern over minors’ access to firearms, stressing the need for accountability among those responsible for securing weapons. She said protecting children requires a comprehensive approach involving families, schools, and stricter enforcement of existing laws.

The proposed legislation remains under deliberation in the Senate as lawmakers continue discussions on balancing child protection and digital access.