Shaping the Future of Public Safety, Information, and Digital Policies: The Next Phase of the House Joint Committee Meetings

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The House of Representatives of the Philippines is set to continue its Joint Committee Meetings involving the Committees on Public Order and Safety, Public Information, and Information and Communications Technology on February 18, 2025. This critical series of discussions is bringing together top experts and policymakers to address urgent concerns in law enforcement, media regulation, and digital governance—all crucial areas in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Among the invited resource persons is Ross Flores Del Rosario, the founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, a pioneering figure in online journalism and digital media in the Philippines. With his extensive experience in media, technology, and public advocacy, Del Rosario is expected to contribute valuable insights into the role of digital platforms in public discourse, the spread of misinformation, and the responsibilities of social media companies in fostering a safer online environment.

A Critical Gathering of Key Stakeholders

The February 18 meeting marks the second installment of these ongoing discussions, following an initial session that set the foundation for a comprehensive regulatory framework. These meetings are not just routine deliberations—they represent an intensifying effort to tackle modern challenges, especially as the digital landscape increasingly influences public safety, information dissemination, and national security.

Key government agencies and private sector representatives will be present, including officials from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and executives from major social media platforms like Meta (Facebook's parent company). These discussions are expected to be rigorous and time-consuming, with multiple sessions likely taking place every Tuesday, spanning the entire day to ensure that every aspect of the proposed framework is carefully deliberated.

A press conference on February 11, 2025, shed light on the progress of these discussions. The committee chairpersons emphasized the need for multi-sectoral collaboration, as policies affecting digital platforms, online content regulation, and cybersecurity require a delicate balance between innovation, freedom of speech, and public safety.

The Role of Ross Flores Del Rosario and Wazzup Pilipinas

As one of the leading voices in digital media and online journalism, Ross Flores Del Rosario is a key resource person in these discussions. His expertise is expected to bridge the gap between media practitioners, government regulators, and technology companies.

Wazzup Pilipinas, the digital news platform Del Rosario founded, has been at the forefront of news, public affairs, and social media trends, making it a critical player in discussions about responsible digital content, misinformation, and media ethics.

As a journalist who has actively covered government transparency, digital transformation, and policy-making, Del Rosario's insights will be invaluable in shaping policies that ensure:

✔ Stronger safeguards against disinformation and cyber threats

✔ Ethical reporting standards in digital journalism

✔ A fair balance between freedom of expression and regulatory oversight

✔ Improved collaboration between social media platforms and the government

These are particularly pressing issues as the rise of AI-driven content, deepfake technology, and algorithm-driven newsfeeds continue to challenge traditional media regulations. The need for a robust, future-proof policy framework has never been greater.

What’s Next? A Long Road to Policy Consensus

While the February 18 meeting is a major step forward, it is just one of many upcoming discussions that will take place in the coming months. Policymakers and stakeholders, including Ross Del Rosario, will need to navigate complex debates over media freedom, technological innovation, and public safety before reaching a consensus.

The House of Representatives has committed to transparency and public engagement in these discussions, with future hearings expected to be livestreamed and made accessible to the public.

Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment for Digital Policies in the Philippines

The continuation of these Joint Committee Meetings marks a crucial turning point in the country's approach to public order, digital governance, and media regulation. The participation of industry leaders, journalists, and technology experts, including Ross Flores Del Rosario, ensures that these policies will be crafted with fairness, innovation, and accountability at the core.

As these discussions progress, the future of how Filipinos consume information, engage in digital spaces, and interact with social media platforms will be shaped in ways that impact society for years to come. Stay tuned for more updates as this critical national discussion unfolds.

Napoles, Plaza, and 8 Others Cleared?! How the Justice System Fails to Punish the Corrupt

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The recent acquittal of businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles, former Agusan del Sur lawmaker Rodolfo “Ompong” Plaza, and eight others by the Sandiganbayan over multiple malversation and graft charges concerning the alleged misuse of ₱27.5 million from the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) has reignited public discourse on the effectiveness of the Philippine justice system in addressing corruption. 

The Sandiganbayan's Ruling

In a comprehensive 234-page decision, the anti-graft court found the accused "not guilty," stating that the release of Plaza's PDAF to non-government organizations (NGOs) such as the Social Development Program for Farmers Foundation Inc. (SDPFFI) and Masaganang Ani Para sa Magsasaka Foundation, Inc. (MAMFI) were "valid government releases." 

Public Outcry and Perception of Justice

This verdict has been met with significant public dismay, with many citizens expressing frustration over what they perceive as a recurring failure of the justice system to hold individuals accountable for corruption. The sentiment that the justice system is making a mockery of the law resonates deeply among Filipinos who yearn for genuine accountability and transparency.

A Pattern of Acquittals

This case is not isolated. In December 2018, former Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. was acquitted of plunder charges related to the pork barrel scam, a decision that also sparked widespread criticism and concerns about the consistency of the judiciary in handling high-profile corruption cases. 

The Broader Implications

The Philippines has long grappled with corruption. According to the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index, the country ranked 115th out of 180 countries, highlighting the persistent challenges in combating graft. 

Studies have shown that convicting corrupt officials can lead to improved management of public finances and a reduction in associated corruption. However, the recent string of acquittals may undermine these potential gains, eroding public trust in the judicial system and the government's commitment to fighting corruption. 

A Call for Reform

The repeated acquittals in high-profile corruption cases underscore the need for comprehensive reforms within the Philippine justice system. There is a pressing demand for greater transparency, accountability, and integrity to restore public confidence and ensure that justice is served without prejudice or favor.

As the nation grapples with these challenges, it becomes imperative for all stakeholders—government officials, the judiciary, civil society, and the citizenry—to work collaboratively towards a system that truly upholds the rule of law and delivers justice for all.

Strengthening Citizen Engagement in Pasig – A Call for Digital Innovation

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Pasig City stands at a pivotal moment—one where the bridge between government and its people can be strengthened through innovation. The recently held 1Sangguni: Sang Sanggunian para sa Pasigueño was a remarkable demonstration of the Vice Mayor's commitment to participatory governance. Seeing our leaders engage directly with the community was both inspiring and reassuring, a testament to the administration’s dedication to transparency and accountability.

However, as with any progressive initiative, there is always room to refine and enhance the process. The power of technology offers an unprecedented opportunity to transform citizen engagement, ensuring that every voice is heard and every concern is addressed with efficiency and clarity. That is why I write to him today—not just with appreciation, but with a vision for a more connected and responsive Pasig City.





February 12, 2025




Hon. Robert "Dodot" Jaworski Jr.

Vice Mayor, Pasig City




Dear Vice Mayor Jaworski,




I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation for the recently held 1Sangguni: Sang Sanggunian para sa Pasigueño Talakayan sa Barangay at Pasig Housing Village 1, Jenny’s Avenue, Maybunga. It is not often that we get the opportunity to engage with our government officials up close, and your presence at the event was truly commendable. I truly hope that it is not a rare occasion just because it's election season.


However, I would like to express a humble suggestion. While the initiative was undoubtedly a step toward inclusive governance, the limited time and venue constraints made it challenging for me to fully articulate my concerns—especially those that require deeper discussion and long-term solutions. I could always better explain my intentions through writing. Most of those that were aired by the attendees failed to address the root cause of their concerns which is understandable. While the gathering is effective for addressing minor issues, larger and more complex problems, as you have reiterated, demand further study, discussion with those involved, and continuous engagement to develop sustainable solutions that would truly lessen or eradicate the problem.


Given this, I propose exploring digital or online platforms that would allow for a more structured and systematic approach to reporting issues, voicing concerns, and submitting recommendations from citizens and stakeholders. A centralized digital communication channel—whether through an interactive website, a dedicated mobile app, or an official hotline— whichever would effectively streamline the process, ensuring that urgent matters reach the appropriate offices promptly while also providing transparency and accountability in addressing public concerns. Stating an issue verbally without the accompanying "receipts" like documents, witness accounts, etc..makes the concerns prone to misunderstanding and thus leading to insufficient solutions.


As someone born and living in Pasig who has been deeply involved in IT and media—being an ECE graduate of Mapua, having worked as an ICT Assistant Officer of a U.N. agency, a systems administrator of a bank, as part of the editorial team of a mainstream newspaper, as a radio host for a radio station and being a blogger throughout these experiences (for more than 10 years already)—I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that our society faces. I strongly believe that direct and efficient communication between government leaders and the community is key to effective governance. With technology at our disposal, we now have the means to bridge this gap and create a more responsive and transparent local government, as well as avoid the proliferation of misinformation, disinformation and malinformation otherwise known as "fake news" which is among the primary cause of discontent and wrong decisions among our fellow men. Even the lack of significant news coming from our LGU can cause discomfort and unease.


May I kindly ask if your office would consider implementing a digital hotline or communication portal where we, as concerned citizens, could easily and efficiently reach out to our leaders or even through their representatives? Such an initiative would not only enhance public engagement but also empower the people of Pasig to take an active role in shaping our city’s future.


As a background, I am among the resource persons invited to share expertise and knowledge at the joint meeting of the Tricomm of the Committees on Public Order and Safety, Public Information, and Information and Communications Technology at the House of Representatives. We will be having our next meeting on February 18, 2025 together with representatives from several government agencies like DICT, and social media platforms like Meta, and for sure it would take several days before we could all agree on an initial framework.


While we work on the framework for a more transparent governance, you could include me as a media partner with access on all your communication involving the advance dissemination of official announcements, coverage of Pasig LGU-initiated or partnered events and activities, opportunities for interview of key personalities and access to departments and organizations for special features, and receiving of official press releases so we could help share these stories on our site.


I look forward to your thoughts on this, and I would be more than willing to contribute further insights or assistance as among your consultants should your office decide to pursue this endeavor. Thank you for your time and continued dedication to serving our community.


Kindly let me know if you have received this email. Thanks and looking forward to working closely with our LGU.




Respectfully,

Ross Flores Del Rosario

09473820042






Pasig City has long been a beacon of progress, but true transformation comes when governance evolves alongside the needs of its people. A digital platform for citizen engagement isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. It is a way to amplify voices, bridge gaps, and create a governance model that thrives on accessibility, accountability, and responsiveness.


I firmly believe that under the Vice Mayor's co-leadership, Pasig can set an example for other cities, proving that government and citizens can work hand in hand in shaping a future that is inclusive, efficient, and truly reflective of the people’s needs. I hope he will consider this proposal, and I would be honored to contribute in any way possible.


Looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate in making Pasig a model city for digital governance and community empowerment. Thank you for his time and unwavering dedication to the people of Pasig.