Ex-DICT Chief Calls Out Agency’s Handling of Messaging, Social Media Apps

Former DICT Secretary Jeffrey Ian Dy has criticized the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) following its recent actions involving Grok, Meta, and Telegram.

Why It Matters: The remark comes at a time when online platforms face growing scrutiny from Philippine regulators. Questions around content moderation, platform accountability, and government oversight are becoming more visible, especially as agencies respond to issues such as scams, misinformation, and online harm.

In a public social media post, Dy referred to the agency as the “Department of Internet Censorship and Takedown,” a play on the department’s official name. He said the DICT’s recent moves signal what he described as an increasing focus on content intervention rather than digital development.

The DICT has recently taken action or issued statements concerning Grok, the artificial intelligence chatbot developed by xAI, Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, and Telegram, a messaging platform that has been under review over concerns tied to illegal activities conducted through private channels.

Dy’s comments suggest concern over what he views as expanding regulatory intervention in online platforms. He implied that enforcement efforts may be shifting the department’s focus away from its broader mandate of improving digital infrastructure, cybersecurity readiness, and nationwide connectivity.

The DICT has previously defended its actions as part of its responsibility to protect the public from online threats. In earlier statements, the department emphasized coordination with law enforcement agencies and platform operators when addressing harmful or illegal online activity.

The exchange reflects a broader debate on how far government agencies should go in monitoring and influencing content on global technology platforms operating in the Philippines.

As digital platforms continue to shape public discourse and commerce, where should regulators draw the line between protection and overreach?