MANILA, Philippines – Globe Telecom is pushing for the immediate passage of a formal site-blocking law in the Philippines, arguing that a legislative mandate is essential to sustain anti-piracy efforts and protect the country’s growing creative industry.
The telecommunications giant’s call follows the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) recently asking internet service providers to block piracy streaming sites.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) projects that the creative economy, which spans film, music, gaming, animation, design and digital content, could contribute up to P2 trillion to the country’s output this year. However, online piracy continues to harm creators and businesses, and exposes consumers to scams and malware.
“If we want Filipino talent to shine globally, we must protect their work at home,” said Globe president and chief executive Carl Cruz.
“Every time someone streams or downloads illegally, we steal opportunity from our future,” he said.
Globe said it complies with IPOPHL’s administrative site blocking requests under a memorandum of understanding on voluntary site blocking, which involves telecommunications operators cooperating to restrict access to piracy websites. The company has acted on IPOPHL’s requests to block 24 infringing sites.
Globe said the current framework is voluntary and lacks the necessary permanence and enforcement power. The company is urging lawmakers in the 20th Congress to refile and pass a site-blocking law that would formally empower IPOPHL to order telecommunications operators to disable access to piracy websites.
“IPOPHL’s leadership and collaboration with industry are critical steps forward, but we need the law to make these actions sustainable and enforceable,” Cruz said.
“A clear legal mandate will protect Filipino creators, strengthen investor confidence, and ensure consumers are safe online,” he said.
Globe said it has long supported anti-piracy initiatives through education campaigns and partnerships. As one of the country’s leading telecommunications operators, Globe reiterated its readiness to implement site blocking orders once IPOPHL is granted full authority by law.
“Protecting Filipino creativity is protecting our livelihood, our culture, and our reputation as a source of world-class talent,” Cruz said.
“By standing united against piracy, we give our creators the chance to thrive and the nation a stronger creative future,” he said.
