The Senate Committee on Games and Amusement is set to issue a show cause order to social media giant Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, after its representatives failed to attend a joint committee inquiry on the proliferation of online gambling in the Philippines.
Senator Erwin Tulfo, chairperson of the committee, expressed frustration on Tuesday after receiving a letter from Meta’s public policy manager, Genixon David, conveying the company’s regrets and requesting a separate meeting instead of attending the hearing. The letter cited the unavailability of its subject matter experts, who are based in Singapore and the United States.
“No, no, no. Why are they dictating this committee kung kailan sila attend? That’s not an excuse. Don’t force me, don’t force me, Meta, na i-subpoena ko pa kayo,” Tulfo said during the hearing.
He emphasized that the participation of key stakeholders is essential, especially given the surge of gambling-related content online, including videos allegedly encouraging viewers to place bets through social media links.
“Kung wala ka respeto sa ibang committee, huwag mong gawin dito. Andaming kulungan niya sa ilalim. Pwede kitang ilagak diyan,” Tulfo added, highlighting the company’s apparent disregard for the legislative process.
Senator Risa Hontiveros suggested that the panel issue a show-cause order to compel Meta Philippines to explain its absence, a move Tulfo agreed was necessary.
Meta, in its letter dated September 15, assured the Senate of its willingness to discuss its policies on gambling and real money gaming content in a separate meeting and submit a position paper.
Tulfo stressed the urgency of the inquiry, noting that around 65 percent of Filipinos are reportedly exposed to online gambling. The committee is considering whether to impose a total ban on online gambling or strengthen regulatory safeguards, balancing social harms against potential government revenues for programs such as Universal Health Care and sports development.
“I want his attendance here, otherwise this committee will be forced to send a subpoena for him,” Tulfo said, referring to Meta’s country manager in the Philippines.
“Kung kailangan i-subpoena ang country representative nila, ipa-subpoena.”
