By Nimfa Estrellado Rep. Keith Micah "Atty. Mike" D.L. Tan of Quezon's 4th District is spearheading legislative efforts to enh...
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| Rep. Keith Micah "Atty. Mike" D.L. Tan of Quezon's 4th District is spearheading legislative efforts to enhance the Philippines' resilience against modern challenges, from digital threats to public health crises. (Quezon PIO) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon – Representative Keith Micah "Atty. Mike" D.L. Tan of Quezon's 4th District has announced the filing of ten groundbreaking legislative measures aimed at fortifying the Philippines against the multifaceted challenges of the 21st century, encompassing both the digital realm and public health security. A dedicated proponent of responsible innovation and human-centric policymaking, Cong. Tan's initial legislative portfolio for his second term showcases a meticulously balanced approach to critical issues such as technology governance, cybersecurity, and preparedness for public health crises.
These proactive steps reflect a deep understanding of the evolving landscape, particularly in light of recent cybersecurity incidents and the lingering lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to build a more secure and thriving nation for all Filipinos. From safeguarding democratic processes online, where disinformation remains a persistent threat to electoral integrity, to bolstering public health infrastructure to better respond to future emergencies, his proposals address pressing concerns with a strategic and forward-thinking vision.
Among the key digital and tech-focused bills introduced by Cong. Tan are House Bill (HB) No. 657, the Internet and Social Media Regulation for Fair Elections Act, designed to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process from misinformation and digital manipulation. Also filed are HB No. 658, the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Regulation Act, which aims to establish a framework for the ethical and responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.
And HB No. 659, the Artificial Intelligence Development Act, seeking to foster the growth of AI innovation within the Philippines to ensure its benefits uplift Filipino lives. Completing this digital suite are HB No. 660, the Cybersecurity Act, intended to strengthen the nation's defenses against evolving cyber threats, and HB No. 661, the Online Network Philippines (OnNetPH) Act, focusing on enhancing the security and resilience of online networks across the country.
"These bills respond to urgent digital threats while ensuring we harness innovation to uplift Filipino lives. Elections must be protected from disinformation, AI must be guided by ethics, and cyberspace must be secured," Cong. Tan stated, emphasizing the urgency and relevance of these measures in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Simultaneously, Cong. Tan has put forward a comprehensive set of health-centered proposals, directly addressing lessons learned from recent global and local health crises, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic. These include HB No. 662, the Philippine Health Security Act, which aims to bolster the nation's overall health security infrastructure.
His health agenda further includes HB No. 663, the Healthy Pilipinas Act, promoting health literacy; HB No. 664, Amendments to the Comprehensive Tuberculosis Elimination Plan Act, strengthening TB control; HB No. 665, the Philippine Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) Act, establishing a dedicated public health agency; and HB No. 666, the Barangay Integrated Development Approach for Nutrition Improvement (BIDANI) Act, empowering local communities in nutrition.
"Health emergencies are no longer rare events. Kailangan ng mamamayan ang sistema - a system that is preventive, responsive, and inclusive. These bills invest in health literacy, preparedness, and long-term community well-being," Cong. Tan articulated, highlighting the proactive nature of his health agenda. Each of these bills aims to provide a robust framework for public health, ensuring the country is better equipped to handle future health challenges. This comprehensive approach underscores his commitment to the welfare and resilience of Filipino communities nationwide.
Cong. Tan also explained the clear purpose behind each legislative effort: "Each of these bills was crafted with a clear purpose: to serve as lifelines of policy - whether that's protecting children from malnutrition, workers from job displacement due to AI, or voters from digital manipulation."
As a second-term solon, Cong. Tan remains committed to crafting modern laws that are technically sound and socially grounded. His ten landmark measures demonstrate a strategic legislative vision rooted in innovation, equity, and preparedness, ensuring no Filipino is left behind in the country's pursuit of development.
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