Quezon city: The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has so far taken down more than 10,000 sites as part of the government's crackdown against illegal online gambling. During a press conference in Quezon City, CICC Acting Executive Director Renato Paraiso said the achievement was made through a 'whole-of-society' approach through partnerships with both government agencies and private partners.
According to Philippines News Agency, Paraiso expressed gratitude to influencers who have ceased promoting illegal online gambling, emphasizing the contribution of social media figures Sachzna Laparan and Big Boy Cheng. These influencers have become advocates of responsible gaming, aiding the CICC's mission.
Paraiso acknowledged the ongoing challenges, stating, 'Mahaba haba pa ho ang laban natin dito (We still have a long way to go in this fight), but I think we're turning the tide.' Furthermore, the CICC and its private partner Digital Pinoys are working towards the takedown of the pages of 30 social media influencers involved in illegal online gambling.
Digital Pinoys national campaigner Ronald Gustilo mentioned that these influencers will be notified to provide explanations and may face possible complaints. Gustilo highlighted that some influencers have hidden or deleted their pages, but this does not absolve them from accountability. He stated, 'Yung pag-bura nila ngayon ay hindi nangangahulugan na abswelto agad sila. (Their decision to delete doesn't mean they are immediately absolved).'
The list of social media pages under scrutiny includes Luisito Vlogs, Kuya Chris, Jonaah Jacob, Perkz Gaming, Waampipti, Kin Jacob, Hailey, Boss Dats, Paldita Gaming, Vic Desucatan, Master Bebe (Postings), Magda, Meos Velance, Biboy Lang Pala, Siquijor Viners, and Kuya Chris/Don Pablo.
The CICC is also seeking further investigation into other pages such as Jonah Jacob, Yolo, Brusko Bros, Gagamboy Gaming, Vanessa Raval, Scatterman, Purunggoy Gaming, Mommy Scatter, Boss Rem X Boss Madam, Donr Napakasherep, Patdo Gaming 2.0, Melisa Streaming TV / Maldita Plays, Yansen, and Boss Lucio.
To date, the CICC's threat monitoring center and Digital Pinoys reporting site have identified 1,610 illegal gambling sites. These sites are primarily mirrors of 146 illegal gambling sites, with nine URLs successfully taken down.