TikTok will suspend all advertisements for real-money gambling in the Philippines starting 22 August, citing efforts to strengthen user safety and responsible content standards.
The move, reported by ABS-CBN, comes as regulators intensify scrutiny of online gambling and its promotion through digital platforms. TikTok said the suspension forms part of its wider goal of creating a safe and positive online environment.
Strict Rules Already in Place
Under TikTok’s existing ad policy, gambling-related promotions are only allowed if they meet strict requirements:
- Ads can only target users aged 25 and above.
- Operators must provide regulatory approval confirming legal status in the Philippines.
- A formal partnership with TikTok’s sales team and written platform approval is required before launch.
Growing Regulatory Pressure
The suspension follows fresh actions by local authorities. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) recently ordered digital wallets to cut ties with gambling sites, while the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) warned messaging and shopping apps against hosting gambling content.
No End Date Yet
TikTok has not confirmed when the suspension will end. However, the move aligns with a broader regional trend of tightening restrictions on online gambling, particularly across social media and digital advertising channels.
