The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), through its Threat Monitoring Center (TMC), has identified more than 1,000 illegal online gambling websites and over 100 influencers allegedly involved in promoting them.
In its latest report, the TMC said 1,007 unlicensed online gambling platforms continue to operate without permits from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR). It also noted 146 sites linked to online sabong (cockfighting) that remain active despite a government ban.
“We are grateful to our influencers who cooperate,” said CICC Acting Executive Director Usec. Aboy Paraiso. “They provide not only an example for influencers to follow, but educate the public on what is right. They give us important insider insight on group chats and contacts within the syndicate.”
The report highlighted the role of influencers in amplifying these operations. At least 119 were found creating content, live-streaming, or distributing referral links that direct audiences to gambling platforms. CICC said this activity encourages bettors to engage with illegal sites and reinforces peer pressure among influencers to participate.
Digital Pinoys, a civil society partner of the CICC, also reported 627 gambling-related URLs submitted by citizens and partner groups as of Sept. 29. Of these, 603 were confirmed as illegal, while nine were already deactivated. Many were identified as mirror sites, or duplicates of existing platforms designed to bypass takedowns and keep banned operations running. More than 100 influencers were also reported to have endorsed these platforms.
“When the initial takedowns were carried out, there was a chilling effect. Although some remained persistent, many of the major influencers withdrew or shifted to endorsing other platforms. The influencers now working with us are proof that there is progress and change after the ultimatum,” said Ronald Gustilo, national campaigner, Digital Pinoys.
Investigators said most of the gambling websites are hosted outside the Philippines, complicating enforcement and underscoring the need for cooperation among government agencies, tech companies, and international regulators.