Authorities in the Philippines are poised to target a group of social media influencers over alleged promotion of illegal online gaming platforms.
During a press briefing, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Centre (CICC) confirmed that ten influencers are under scrutiny, with names including Perkz Gaming, Jam Magno, Vic Desucatan and Wampipti.
This action is being carried out in conjunction with PAGCOR, the nation’s gaming regulator, and Digital Pinoys, a government-supported digital advocacy group, and comes after similar warnings issued to a group of 30 influencers in November.
At the time, CICC’s Chief Undersecretary, Renato Paraiso, warned that the influencers could face charges for violating the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, Presidential Decree No. 1602 (which mandates harsher penalties for illegal gambling), and Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code on estafa.
If prosecuted, the influencers could incur fines and possible imprisonment under the Philippines’ cybercrime and gaming regulations.
CICC has primarily led efforts to target the Philippines’ black market, working alongside the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG).
In October, CICC, together with Digital Pinoys, reported identifying more than 1,600 unlicensed gambling websites, many of which utilized mirror sites intended to circumvent regulatory takedowns.
PAGCOR wants greater ad restrictions
The status of online gaming has remained a focus of scrutiny among the Philippines’ Senators.
Consequently, to address concerns, PAGCOR has pledged a series of changes to enhance regulation, including a blackout on TV and radio ads during ‘primetime’—from 5:30pm to 8:30pm.
In the most recent hearing, PAGCOR’s Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Alejandro Tengco, informed Senators that the agency is considering the prospect of a full ban on gambling advertising.
He stated: “Radio and TV stations are inquiring whether they can still air the ads during off-peak slots, primarily for advertising revenue. However, for us, if a complete ban is feasible, that is what we aim to enforce.”
PAGCOR has additionally allocated Php 50m (£639,125) to combat the black market.