The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) said Friday it is seeking broader cooperation with internet service providers (ISPs) to strengthen site-blocking measures against illegal streaming and pirated websites in 2026 as part of a plan to close enforcement gaps.
IPOPHL acting director-general Nathaniel Arevalo said the agency is intensifying coordination with regulators and ISPs alongside expanded monitoring of online platforms offering free and unauthorized access to movies and television content.
Arevalo said piracy remains a persistent problem particularly with illegal streaming sites and confirmed that the agency is increasing monitoring and taking action once complaints are filed.
The agency said it ordered the takedown of 21 infringing websites in 2025, an increase from 17 sites blocked in 2024 following a rise in complaints from rights holders.
Most cases involved websites streaming pirated movies and television programs including Asian content such as Korean drama series as well as platforms linked to major content owners.
Arevalo said IPOPHL is also tightening its response to mirrored or copycat websites that reappear after an initial takedown.
He said that if similar or mirrored websites pop up, the complainant could file again and the agency would move to have those sites taken down once they are identified.
Site-blocking is carried out in coordination with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) which issues blocking orders to ISPs following IPOPHL findings.
The process covers major providers such as Globe, Smart, Sky and DITO. Arevalo said the agency is working to include additional ISPs to ensure broader coverage and more effective enforcement against evolving piracy methods.
