Rapid Expansion of illicit Gambling Operations on Philippine Social Media Following Crackdown on Current Leaders
The world of online gambling has become increasingly prevalent in the Philippines, with social media platforms playing a significant role in its promotion.
Companies like Meta and X allow gambling ads if advertisers are "authorized," while Google permits ads from state-licensed operators. However, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has not extended this requirement to other platforms, creating a patchy regulatory landscape.
The proliferation of gambling ads on social media platforms has raised concerns, particularly due to the sophisticated algorithms that target potential customers, making it a dangerous "frontier." This issue has been further compounded by the involvement of local celebrities and influencers in promoting gambling sites, blurring the line between entertainment and financial temptation.
In response to these concerns, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) ordered all e-wallets, banks, and financial apps to remove gambling links or icons within 48 hours on August 14, 2025. This move was followed by TikTok's voluntary pause on real-money gambling ads on its platform in the Philippines.
However, the banning of e-wallets has not stopped the online gambling industry from finding new avenues. Ads for online casinos are now appearing on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Despite the regulatory challenges, industry groups have warned that cutting off access might push players towards illegal operators and riskier alternatives.
The online gambling problem in the Philippines has also spilled into pop culture, making it a fight about the culture being built around gambling. The Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP) issued guidelines urging members to avoid gambling promotions.
PAGCOR, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, reported that there were 12,000 illegal online gambling sites, many of which are offshore. The line between financial inclusion and financial temptation remains unclear, with millions of pesos being poured monthly into social media campaigns for online gambling operators.
Regulation hasn't kept pace with the proliferation of gambling on social media platforms, creating a murky enforcement landscape with loopholes abound. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for regulations to adapt and ensure a safe and responsible online environment for all users.
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