Senate Committee to Issue Show Cause Order Against Meta Over Online Gambling Ads

The Senate committee on games and amusement announced it will issue a show cause order to Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, following its failure to attend a scheduled hearing addressing the surge of online gambling advertisements in the Philippines.

During the hearing held on Tuesday, Senator Erwin Tulfo, committee chairman, expressed frustration after the committee secretariat presented Meta's letter excusing their absence. The letter indicated that Meta preferred a separate meeting with the senator, citing that relevant subject matter experts were based in Singapore and the United States and unavailable due to prior commitments.

Senator Tulfo criticized Meta's decision, emphasizing the need for the company to respect the Senate's authority. He questioned why online gambling ads continue to proliferate on Meta's platforms despite ongoing efforts by e-wallet services to disconnect from gambling sites.

"We expect Meta's country manager in the Philippines to attend and explain the matter. If necessary, this committee will issue a subpoena," Tulfo stated, referencing Genixon David, Facebook Philippines' Public Policy Manager and Representative Officer.

He firmly added, "Kung kailangan i-subpoena ang country representative nila ay ipa-subpoena," underscoring the committee's readiness to compel attendance.

Requests for comment were forwarded to Meta Philippines, with updates pending further response.