Social media platform Facebook has taken down 20 pages of Filipino influencers accused of promoting illegal online gambling, following a formal request from the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC).
The takedown was confirmed by advocacy group Digital Pinoys, which submitted the initial batch of flagged pages to CICC. Among the affected influencers were high-profile names like Sachzna Laparan, with 9.7 million followers; Boy Tapang, with 5.5 million; actor Mark Anthony Fernandez, with 242,000; and Kuya Lex TV, with 100,000 followers.
According to Digital Pinoys National Campaigner Ronald Gustilo, the action serves as a strong message that neither their group nor the government is bluffing when it comes to cracking down on online gambling violations.
“These influencers act as if they’re untouchable,” said Gustilo. “This move proves we’re serious, and more will follow.”
Facebook, owned by Meta, has yet to issue a formal statement on the matter. However, the removal aligns with ongoing efforts to curb the spread of illegal activities on digital platforms, particularly online gambling operations that violate Philippine law.
The CICC and Digital Pinoys emphasized that this is only the first batch of takedowns and further actions against violators should be expected.
