After the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched a harsh crackdown, several well-known social media influencers are quickly taking down content that promotes illicit online gambling sites.
DICT Crackdown
The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Center (CICC), the DICT’s cybercrime arm, reports an 80% success rate among top content creators in taking down casino-related posts.
CICC Executive Director Renato Paraiso stated that while major influencers have largely complied, the investigation is expanding beyond the top tier to identify remaining violators. The CICC plans to engage social media platforms like Meta to reinforce stricter gambling regulations. Formal letters are being sent to those continuing to endorse unlicensed operators.
Paraiso urged the public to consult the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) website for a list of legitimate online gaming operators, emphasizing their vetted and regulated status, ensuring user safety and adherence to “know your client” procedures.
Thirteen high-profile influencers, boasting a combined reach of over 46 million followers and allegedly earning 50-60% of revenues from illegal gambling sites, are currently under CICC scrutiny.
Some, like Boss Lucio Teves and Kazumi, have distanced themselves, while others, including Chooks TV and Big Boy Cheng, have yet to comment. The CICC warns of potential criminal charges for non-compliance, including illegal gambling, tax evasion, and Data Privacy Act breaches.
Started his freelancing adventure in 2018 and began doing freelance Audio Engineering work and then started freelance writing a few years later.
Currently he writes for Gadget Pilipinas and Grit.PH.
He is also a musician, foody, gamer, and PC enthusiast.
