Meta has removed Facebook pages of several influencers promoting illegal online gambling. This action followed a joint request by Digital Pinoys and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), The Philippine Star reported.
In the first wave of enforcement, Meta took down 20 pages. These included those of major influencers such as Boy Tapang (5.5 million followers), Sachzna Laparan (9.7 million), Kuya Lex TV (100,000), and Mark Anthony Fernandez (242,000). According to Digital Pinoys, this initial batch represents just a portion of the accounts flagged for review.
Ronald Gustilo, national campaigner for Digital Pinoys, praised Meta’s rapid response as a strong step toward reducing unregulated gambling content. He also noted that many influencers had previously ignored CICC warnings, assuming authorities wouldn’t act.
The CICC has now started issuing show cause orders to those who failed to comply. They demand an explanation for why they shouldn’t face criminal charges.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has ordered all operators to remove gambling advertisements from buses, jeepneys, taxis, and trains by 15 August. This measure is part of a broader campaign to limit public exposure to gambling content, especially from illegal sources.
As public concern over gambling addiction grows, lawmakers continue to debate a full ban on online gambling. However, PAGCOR and licensed operators advocate for stricter regulation rather than total prohibition.
