Manila: The Senate may issue a subpoena to Meta after its representatives failed to attend a joint committee inquiry on the proliferation of online gambling. Senator Erwin Tulfo, chairperson of the Committee on Games and Amusement, was dismayed Tuesday after receiving a letter from Meta public policy manager Genixon David, who conveyed the company’s regrets and offered instead to meet with the senator at his office at a later date.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tulfo expressed frustration during the hearing, questioning why Meta was dictating the terms of their attendance at the committee. He emphasized that the committee expected participation from key stakeholders due to the increase in gambling-related content online, including videos allegedly encouraging viewers to bet through social media links.
The senator viewed Meta’s absence as a sign of disrespect to the legislative process. He warned of possible consequences, highlighting the availability of detention cells for those who disregard the committee’s authority. Senator Risa Hontiveros proposed issuing a show-cause order to Meta Philippines to explain their absence, which Tulfo supported, stating it was necessary to compel an explanation.
Meta’s letter, dated Sept. 15, explained that its experts on online gambling policies are based in Singapore and the United States, and were unavailable due to prior commitments. Despite this, the company expressed willingness to discuss its gambling policies with the Senate in a separate meeting and to submit a position paper.
Tulfo stressed the urgency of the inquiry, citing that around 65 percent of Filipinos are reportedly exposed to online gambling. He noted that the Senate must consider whether to ban online gambling entirely or enhance regulatory measures, balancing the potential social harms against revenue for government programs like Universal Health Care and sports development.