Globe Telecom is urging Philippine lawmakers to prioritize site-blocking legislation to combat online piracy, emphasizing its importance for the local creative economy. With projections showing significant growth, Globe warns that without stronger anti-piracy measures, Filipino artists and the economy are at risk.
Globe Telecom, a leading multiplay operator in the Philippines, is urging lawmakers to prioritize the enactment of site-blocking legislation. This proposed law would empower the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) to instruct Internet service providers to block access to piracy websites.
According to Globe, this measure is essential for safeguarding local creatives and ensuring that the Philippines aligns with international standards. Recent figures from the Department of Trade and Industry indicate that the local creative economy is projected to contribute as much as ₱2 trillion (approximately €29 billion) to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2025, an increase from ₱1.94 trillion in 2024.
However, Globe warns that this growth is jeopardized unless Congress implements stronger anti-piracy measures. Carl Cruz, president and CEO of Globe, emphasized, “Every illegal download is a peso taken from Filipino artists and the economy. Protecting the creative industry from piracy means protecting jobs, investments, and the future of Filipino talent.”
Previous efforts to introduce site-blocking legislation have faced delays. With the 20th Congress currently in session, Globe insists that passing a site-blocking law should be a legislative priority. The company points out that similar policies are already in place in various countries to protect their creative industries.
“The creative economy is one of the country’s most promising growth drivers,” Cruz stated. “We cannot afford to let piracy undermine its potential. Congress must act now.”