The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Center (CICC) of the Philippines announced significant progress in the crackdown on illegal online gambling, having shut down over 10,000 illegal gambling websites and pursuing accountability for 30 internet celebrities suspected of promoting illegal gambling content. The agency stated that despite achieving phased results, the "sweeping operation" against illegal gambling is far from over, with many active gambling mirror sites still being monitored.
Operational Results and Social Collaboration
Renato Palaez, the acting executive director of the CICC, announced at a press conference in Quezon City that the government's actions against illegal online gambling have been significantly effective, with more than 10,000 illegal gambling websites shut down. This achievement is attributed to the collaborative mechanism between government agencies and private institutions.
Palaez particularly mentioned that some social media influencers have voluntarily ceased promoting illegal gambling content and have instead engaged in advocacy for "responsible gambling," for which he expressed appreciation and thanks.
Accountability of Internet Celebrities and Public Listing
CICC, in collaboration with its partner Digital Pinoys, has identified 30 internet celebrities who continue to promote illegal gambling content. These influencers will be required to submit written explanations and may face legal proceedings. Those listed include well-known Filipino content creators such as Luisito Vlogs, Kuya Chris, and Paldita Gaming.
CICC clearly stated that some influencers attempt to evade responsibility by deleting accounts or hiding content, but these actions do not exempt them from legal accountability, and related investigations will continue.
Technical Challenges and Monitoring Status
According to data from CICC's Threat Monitoring Center and Digital Pinoys' reporting platform, 1610 active gambling mirror sites are still being tracked. Analysis shows that these sites actually originate from only 146 core gambling websites, indicating that illegal gambling operators quickly create mirror sites to evade bans.
This phenomenon of "blocking without eradication" poses significant challenges to the crackdown, as illegal sites reappear like "harvesting leeks," causing the cleanup efforts to become a tug-of-war.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Outlook
Palaez candidly stated, "Our battle is still long, but at least the situation is changing." CICC acknowledges the immense difficulty in completely eliminating illegal online gambling, especially as the gambling black market continues to use social media platforms and technological loopholes for dissemination and expansion.
External concerns persist that if the current trend continues, the Philippines may find itself in an endless cycle of "unblockable and inexhaustible" challenges. Nevertheless, CICC expressed its commitment to continue the crackdown and strengthen cooperation with all parties to gradually control the spread of illegal online gambling.
Social Responsibility and Public Participation
CICC calls on the public to raise awareness of the dangers of illegal gambling and to refrain from participating in or promoting any form of illegal gambling activities. The agency encourages the public to report illegal gambling websites and promotional activities through official channels, jointly maintaining a clean online environment.
The agency also stated that it will continue to collaborate with social media platforms to enhance the monitoring and cleanup of gambling content, preventing the spread of illegal gambling information through internet celebrities and social platforms.
