Deadline Set for Influencers as Philippines Cracks Down on Gambling Ads

Philippine authorities have set a July 11 deadline for social media influencers to remove illegal online gambling content, warning of immediate takedowns and legal action for those who refuse. The government, alongside advocacy groups like Digital Pinoys, is intensifying its crackdown on both digital and billboard gambling ads nationwide.

Philippine authorities have stepped up efforts to curb gambling promotions online and in public spaces, issuing strict deadlines and warnings to content creators and advertisers.

Influencers Ordered to Remove Illegal Gambling Content

The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) announced at a press conference that social media influencers must take down illegal gambling endorsements by Friday, July 11.

CICC Assistant Secretary Renato Paraiso explained, “To follow due process, before we pursue cases, we would inform them and ask them to explain why CICC should not pursue cases against them.”

He emphasized that starting Monday, July 14, the CICC will begin sending notices to non-compliant influencers, and social media platforms will be asked to take down illegal gambling posts and accounts that remain online after the deadline.

CICC is initially focusing on the country’s 20 most prominent influencers. Paraiso added, “Kapag siguro naman ho sineryoso ko yung benteng malalaking yan, magkakaroon naman siguro ng takot yung iba at seseryosohin na rin ang kampanya ng CICC at nating lahat laban sa illegal online gambling.”

Digital Pinoys Calls Out Influencer Accountability

Digital Pinoys, represented by National Campaigner Ronald Gustilo, joined the press conference and highlighted the real-world impact of influencer endorsements:

“Yung pag-eendorso nila ay talagang ang dami pong nahihikayat. Bukod po sa aksyon na gagawin ngayon ng CICC, tinitignan din namin ano yung maaaring gawin ng BIR dito. Kasi ho yung mga influencer nakikita natin, nabanggit ko nga kanina, ang rarangya ng bahay, ang ganda ng mga sasakyan, nagbabayad ba ng buwis? Dineklara ba nila yung mga income nila both from the endorsement at doon sa sugal?”

He also noted that some influencers were even seen promoting and playing on these gambling sites live during their broadcasts, further amplifying their reach and influence.

CICC Director Rojun Hosillos also warned the public about phishing, unauthorized e-wallet transactions, and cases where winners are denied their gambling winnings due to restricted access after winning, making it impossible for them to cash out. Director Alvin Navarro added that influencers and site operators could potentially face a myriad of legal cases, including estafa using information and communications technology (ICT), violation of the Data Privacy Act, possible tax evasion, and other related offenses.

CICC, Digital Pinoys, and Law Enforcement Move Against Illegal Gambling

CICC, in partnership with Digital Pinoys, stressed the growing risks of illegal online gambling platforms, especially to minors, and revealed that enforcement action is ongoing against more than 150 betting sites. These illegal sites deliberately avoid age verification and tax obligations, opening their platforms to minors and making it easy for underage users to access gambling. Paraiso noted active support from law enforcement and encouraged victims to contact CICC via hotline 1326.

PAGCOR Orders Billboard Takedown

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has also ordered all gambling billboards and ads on public transport to be dismantled by August 15. Only responsible gaming ads pre-approved by PAGCOR will be allowed. Operators are required to submit an inventory of all ads by July 16.

Lawmakers Seek Stricter Controls

The crackdown comes as lawmakers push for stronger regulation or an outright ban on online gambling.