Manila: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) confirmed that the video sharing platform TikTok will halt all Real Money Gambling (RMG) advertisements starting Friday. This decision comes as part of the administration’s efforts to promote a safe digital environment.
According to Philippines News Agency, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda announced that TikTok voluntarily decided to cease gambling ads in alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive and the government’s campaign for a safer digital nation. Aguda stressed the importance of global platforms like TikTok supporting these digital safety initiatives, which aim to ensure internet access in the Philippines is not only fast and affordable but also safe and responsible.
Aguda highlighted that stopping RMG ads is a protective measure for the public, particularly young people. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in RMG ads on social media platforms, promoting online casinos, betting apps, and other gambling-related services. These advertisements have raised concerns due to their accessibility to minors and vulnerable individuals.
President Marcos has underscored the necessity of protecting Filipino users, especially the youth, from various digital threats such as online gambling, scams, misinformation, and data exploitation.
