Cyberbullying in the Philippines: Applicable Laws and Practical

Of the top 5 cybercrimes in 2020, at least 3 can be associated with Cyber bullying.

What is cyberbullying

 
Let’s refer to Republic Act 10627 for the definition. Though this law is intended for minors, we can lift the framework to get a working definition.
 

SEC. 2. Acts of Bullying
Any severe or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another student that has the effect of actually causing or placing the latter in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm or damage to his property; creating a hostile environment at school for the other student; infringing on the rights of the other student at school, or materially and substantially disrupting the education process or the orderly operation of a school;

When cyberbullying is not

 
Protected speech is not cyberbullying because the Philippine constitution guarantees free speech and expression. So written, verbal, artistic, and creative expressions both in virtual and real-world are protected unless it falls under cyber libel.
 
While we enjoy this freedom, it should not result in reputational, mental, physical, and material harm to another person. Our human right ends when it encroaches on someone else’s rights. Creating safe spaces is a co-responsibility of everyone

Suicide and cyber bullying

It was reported that there was an increase in suicides and they are attributing it to bullying, Although there certainly is a connection between the two, the research highlights the complexity of the relationship.

What to do if you are at the receiving end of online bullying

Always inform somebody when you are being cyberbullied, harassed, stalked, or mobbed

• As a minor, tell your parents or guardian. It is best to share this also to your class adviser or the school’s guidance office. Parents, it’s best to inform the principal about the incident. As required by law, schools thru the Principal or his/her designate should conduct an investigation.
• As an adult, tell someone you trust, and if harassment is work-related, it is wise to give your HR a heads-up. If you’re experiencing workplace bullying, here’s what you can do

 
Always keep a copy and screenshot of the hate messages, degrading images, and/or videos using a browser where the URL is visible
 

• Do not delete text messages, emails, tweets, and PMs/DMs.
• Always take a screenshot of the Facebook, Twitter, and other social network’s timeline
• Download a copy of degrading images or videos to be kept as evidence

Block the accounts of the people who are harassing you.

• Parents, do this immediately and have your kids take an online vacation
• For adult victims, do this if the attacks are affecting you already but ask someone to monitor the accounts of the bully.
• If you can, take an online vacation. Use different CP numbers when necessary, but ask someone to monitor the SMS in your original number