Philippine lawmaker calls for liability for gambling influencers
Eli San Fernando urged PAGCOR to impose equal liability on influencers and gambling operators over promotional content that breaches advertising rules.
The Philippines.- Eli San Fernando has called for social media influencers and content creators promoting gambling platforms to be held legally accountable when their promotional activities violate advertising regulations or contribute to gambling-related harm. The Kamanggagawa Party-list Representative raised the proposal during a House of Representatives committee hearing on the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s (PAGCOR) proposed 2027 budget.
San Fernando questioned PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco over gambling advertisements appearing on social media without the responsible gambling disclaimers required under existing rules. He argued that influencers and celebrities can have a significant impact on vulnerable consumers, particularly those facing financial difficulties.
The lawmaker urged PAGCOR to establish “equal liability” for influencers and gambling companies when promotional content breaches regulations or contributes to social harm. He warned that widespread online gambling is placing additional financial pressure on ordinary Filipinos, noting that some minimum-wage earners have been forced to pawn valuables to settle gambling-related debts. He argued that endorsements by well-known public figures can create the perception that gambling is a viable way for financially struggling families to generate income.
Tengco said PAGCOR has already taken enforcement action against licensed operators that fail to comply with responsible gambling advertising requirements. He cited the case of an online gambling company linked to actress and social media personality Ivana Alawi, which was fined PHP1 million (US$16,200) following a social media promotion involving a mobile phone giveaway. The operator was fined for breaching responsible advertising rules and could face licence cancellation in the event of repeated violations.
