The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Centre (CICC) has officially endorsed 15 social media influencers to the Philippine National Police–Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) after confirming their involvement in promoting unlicensed online gambling platforms. According to CICC chief Undersecretary Renato Paraiso, these influencers collectively reach over 76 million followers on Facebook, significantly amplifying the visibility and reach of illegal gambling content. Many of these creators gained prominence during the pandemic, further increasing their influence over digital audiences.
CICC’s Threat Monitoring Centre identified the unlicensed gambling sites and determined that the influencers used livestreams, referral links, and online challenges to promote the platforms. Authorities expressed concern that the promotions reached minors and vulnerable users, intensifying the urgency of regulatory action. Paraiso confirmed that the influencers were previously given opportunities to remove their promotional content but did not comply, leading to escalated legal measures.
The endorsement to the PNP-ACG marks the beginning of case build-up for possible prosecution. Violators may face charges under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, Presidential Decree No. 1602 addressing illegal gambling, and Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code covering estafa. Paraiso also indicated that ongoing investigations may uncover a larger network of coordinated promotions, potentially leading to charges of syndicated estafa.
In parallel, advocacy group Digital Pinoys announced the rollout of new monitoring software capable of detecting illegal gambling sites more efficiently. The technology will support the CICC in tracking illicit online gambling operations and identifying individuals promoting them.
This regulatory escalation comes amid growing public concern over the increasing presence of illegal gambling content on social media. Authorities emphasise that both operators and individuals who knowingly promote unlicensed gambling activities may face legal consequences.
