The Philippines CICC proposes new measures amid challenge of controlling illegal gambling sites

Cybercrime officials have told the Senate that most unlicensed platforms are hosted overseas.

The Philippines.- Authorities in the Philippines have blocked at least 50,000 illegal online gambling websites. However, platforms rapidly reappear under different domains, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Centre (CICC) has warned.

During a recent Senate hearing, the CICC said an estimated 95 to 97 per cent of unlicensed sites were operating from outside the country, preventing more permanent intervention. The spread of digital payment services, social media promotion and constant mobile access have contributed to the growth of unlicensed betting sites and increased user participation, the body said.

Executive Director Renato Paraiso proposed the appointment of “cyber diplomats” to strengthen international cybersecurity coordination, stating that the Philippines lacks officials focused specifically on this area. He also recommended expanding Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties to explicitly cover cybercrime, as existing agreements are largely designed for traditional criminal offences.

Sen. Win Gatchalian recently called for stronger legislative measures against unlicensed gambling, arguing that blocking alone does not address the root of the problem.

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Cybercrime officials have told the Senate that most unlicensed platforms are hosted overseas. The Philippines.- Authorities in the Philippines have blocked at least 50,000 illegal online gambling websites. However, platforms rapidly reappear under different domains, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Centre (CICC) has warned. During a recent Senate hearing, the CICC said an estimated 95…