Since August 22, TikTok has suddenly announced the suspension of all "real money gambling" advertisements on the platform, which immediately attracted great attention from the gambling industry and advertisers. It is widely believed in the industry that this measure is closely related to the Philippine government's recent increase in the regulation of online gambling.
TikTok stated in the statement that the platform is always committed to providing users with a "safe and positive environment". According to its regulations, all gambling and related advertisements must not only have a legal license but also must obtain TikTok's written approval, and are only allowed to be shown to users aged 25 and above.
The official document clarifies three conditions for placing gambling advertisements:
Cooperate with TikTok sales representatives to obtain written permission;
Submit legal qualification proof from regulatory agencies or relevant departments;
Advertisements are only shown to users aged 25 and above.
This decision coincides with the Philippine government's intensified crackdown on online gambling. The central bank has recently asked e-wallets and financial institutions to remove payments and links related to gambling websites; the Department of Information and Communications Technology has also issued warnings to communication software and e-commerce platforms, prohibiting the promotion of gambling services.
Industry observers point out that TikTok's move may be a "proactive defense" intended to avoid potential regulatory risks. This move not only impacts gambling advertisers but also puts the gray industry chain that relies on related traffic into an uncertain state.
Analysts believe that TikTok's ban may trigger a chain reaction, with other social platforms possibly following suit. Once the online gambling advertising channels are completely closed, the Philippine online gambling industry may face a new round of rectification and reshuffling.
