Meta, parent company of Facebook, has removed at least 20 pages belonging to high-profile Filipino influencers for promoting illegal gambling platforms, following a joint request from the Philippine government and civic group Digital Pinoys.
The crackdown affected accounts with massive reach, including Boy Tapang (5.5M followers), Sachzna Laparan (9.7M), Kuya Lex TV (100K), and Mark Anthony Fernandez (242K). The takedown sets a strong precedent for how tech platforms are now cooperating with authorities to curb the spread of unlicensed gambling promotions.
“Some influencers ignored prior warnings and continued violating Philippine laws. This move sends a clear message: there will be legal and criminal consequences,” said Ronald Gustilo, national campaigner for Digital Pinoys.
The enforcement was based on the Cybercrime Prevention Act (RA 10175) and the Anti-Money Laundering Act (2001), which penalize both the promotion and operation of unlicensed gambling services. The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Center (CICC) facilitated the technical execution of the takedowns in coordination with Meta.
In parallel, regulator PAGCOR has ordered all gambling advertisements removed from public transport systems by August 15, citing concerns over the exposure of minors and vulnerable populations.
Philippines Stakes a Claim: Casino Giants Push Back Against Online Gambling Ban
These coordinated actions reflect the government’s intention to tighten the regulation of online gambling amid ongoing legislative debates—some pushing for total bans, others advocating stricter licensing. Influencers, digital advertisers, and gambling operators can expect increased scrutiny moving forward.
