Globe Backs Site Blocking to Protect Filipino Creativity and Strengthen the Local Creative Economy

Following the recent move of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) asking internet service providers to block piracy streaming sites, Globe is calling for the immediate passage of a site blocking law that will make these efforts legally enforceable and sustainable.

Filipino creativity fuels one of the country’s most dynamic industries, spanning film, music, gaming, animation, design, and digital content. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) projects that the creative economy could contribute up to ₱2 trillion to the country’s output this year, underscoring its growing role in national development. Yet online piracy continues to erode this progress, depriving creators and businesses of fair income while exposing consumers to scams, malware, and identity theft.

“Every time someone streams or downloads illegally, we steal opportunity from our future,” said Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz. “If we want Filipino talent to shine globally, we must protect their work at home.”

Globe complies with IPOPHL’s administrative site blocking requests issued under the Memorandum of Understanding on Voluntary Site Blocking, where telecommunications operators agree to cooperate in restricting access to piracy websites. It has acted on IPOPHL’s requests to block 24 infringing sites identified under the agency’s enforcement actions.

However, Globe emphasized that the current framework remains voluntary and lacks the permanence and enforcement power of legislation. 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.”

Globe has long supported anti-piracy initiatives through education campaigns, partnerships with content providers, and cooperation with government agencies. 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 added. “By standing united against piracy, we give our creators the chance to thrive and the nation a stronger creative future.”