In a privilege speech, Gatchalian said studies have shown that exposure to social media and violent content can influence young people and encourage violent behavior.

He cited the Zamboanga shooting, in which the incident was reportedly broadcast live on social media, as another reason for stronger safeguards for children online.

“Social media ban” proposals will be among the Senate’s priorities, Gatchalian said. One of the measures is his Senate Bill No. 2066, which seeks to prohibit children aged 16 and below from using social media.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri expressed support for the proposal but said restrictions should also cover violent online games, particularly shooting games that may influence children to imitate violent acts.

Zubiri cited a previous shooting incident in Tacloban City and the recent incident in Zamboanga City as examples of why authorities need to examine the possible influence of violent online content on young people.

Gatchalian said addressing youth violence would require more than restrictions on social media.

“Kailangan natin ng malawak at sistematikong pagtugon mula sa regulasyon sa pagkuha ng baril, inspeksyon at seguridad sa paaralan at maging ang pagsubaybay sa social media at mga marahas na content na maaaring na-access ng kabataan online,” he said.

“We owe our children more than condolences after another tragedy. We owe them schools and communities where they can learn, live, play and grow in peace,” Gatchalian said.

“Pananagutan ng pamahalaan at ng buong lipunan ang kaligtasan ng ating kabataan. Hindi natin maaaring hintayin na may panibagong buhay ang mawala bago tayo kumilos,” he added.