The Philippines is addressing the issue of illegal gambling, focusing on influencers who promote unlicensed services to locals. The Philippines’ Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) recognizes this problem and is increasing efforts to restrict influencers’ influence and hold them accountable for endorsing illegal gambling. This initiative involves multiple agencies, including the advocacy group Digital Pinoys. The CICC and Digital Pinoys will provide information about influencers to the Philippine National Police–Anti-Cybercrime Group, which will then conduct formal investigations and possibly pursue legal action.
The CICC stated, “The latest endorsements affirm the government’s commitment to hold accountable not just illegal operators but also individuals and entities who knowingly promote or enable these schemes online. Endorsement of these cases by the CICC signifies that evidence has been collected against the promoters, and that their case-buildup affirms that sufficient grounds exist for prosecution.”
Influencer marketing is a prominent channel for online casinos, despite legal uncertainties. Many influencers engage in this promotional activity due to financial incentives linked to converting traffic into customers for iGaming platforms. The CICC is compiling data on influencers suspected of facilitating online gambling and collaborating with Digital Pinoys to ensure these individuals are investigated by authorities and held accountable, as their actions are believed to violate the Philippines’ gambling laws.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com