Telecommunications company Globe said it is supporting the move of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) to block illegal streaming sites and is calling for the passage of a site blocking law to make these efforts legally enforceable.
“Every time someone streams or downloads illegally, we steal opportunity from our future,” said Carl Cruz, president and CEO of Globe. “If we want Filipino talent to shine globally, we must protect their work at home.”
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) projects that the country’s creative economy could contribute up to ₱2 trillion to the national output this year. However, online piracy continues to affect this growth, depriving creators and businesses of income while exposing consumers to scams and malware.
Globe said it has complied with IPOPHL’s administrative site blocking requests issued under the Memorandum of Understanding on Voluntary Site Blocking. Under the agreement, telecommunications operators work together to restrict access to piracy websites. Globe has already acted on IPOPHL’s requests to block 24 infringing sites.
The company, however, noted that the current framework is voluntary and lacks the enforcement power of legislation. Globe urged lawmakers to refile and pass a site blocking law that would formally authorize IPOPHL to direct telecommunications operators to disable access to piracy sites.
“IPOPHL’s leadership and collaboration with industry are critical steps forward, but we need the law to make these actions sustainable and enforceable,” Cruz said. “A clear legal mandate will protect Filipino creators, strengthen investor confidence, and ensure consumers are safe online.”
Globe said it continues to support anti-piracy efforts through awareness campaigns, partnerships with content providers, and coordination with government agencies. The company also reiterated its readiness to implement site blocking orders once IPOPHL is granted full legal authority.
“Protecting Filipino creativity is protecting our livelihood, our culture, and our reputation as a source of world-class talent,” Cruz said. “By standing united against piracy, we give our creators the chance to thrive and the nation a stronger creative future.”