NEWS

Attorney-at-law alerts student journalists online acts have consequences

Technical Drafting | News Writer

News Highlights:

• Dela Cerna warned that careless online behavior can lead to fines, jail time, and lasting reputational damage, urging student journalists to treat digital platforms responsibly.

• Cybercrime is highly prevalent among learners, with 70% experiencing violations such as hacking, identity theft, cyberbullying, and online libel.

• Republic Act 10175 provides legal protection and accountability, encouraging victims to report abuses to authorities like the NBI and reminding users that online actions shape their future.

SURALLAH, South Cotabato—Law Practitioner warned students journalists that careless online actions—such as cyberbullying, identity theft, and online libel—can result in fines, imprisonment, or permanent damage to their reputations. 

Read More: For Online Libel, Courts May Impose Alternative Penalty of Fine Instead of Imprisonment

Gilbert M. Dela Cerna, Law advocate, stressed that 70% of learners experience some form of cybercrime violation, making responsible digital behavior crucial for safeguarding their education and future opportunities, during the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) 2026.

“7 out of 10 students nakakaranas ngayon ng cybercrime,” he stated.

He reminded the audience that online freedom comes with responsibility and that digital content may remain accessible to teachers, family members, and future employers.

“What you click today affects your tomorrow,” he said.

Dela Cerna explained that cybercrime includes any illegal act committed using a computer, cellphone, or the internet, adding that social media platforms are where many violations now occur.

“Your actions online can affect your future, reputation, and even your freedom,” he added.

He stated that the abuse of technology, such as spreading fake news, insulting others, and stealing information that led the government to pass Republic Act 10175.

Read More: R.A. 10175

“The law was created to respond to these digital abuses,” he affirmed.

Dela Cerna outlined that the Act covers hacking, identity theft, online libel, cyberbullying and harassment, and cybersex or online exploitation.

“Ako din may ibang gumawa ng acc, ginamit yung picture ko yung pangalan ko kaya nire-report ko na,” he shared.

When asked about the  Emman Atienza bill, Dela Cerna noted that the bill is not yet refined and still needs further study.

“Kailangan pa itong pag-aralan,” he stated.

He further encouraged students who experience online harm to report incidents to authorities, particularly the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).