Pagcor imposes P1-M fine on gambling firm linked to Ivana Alawi iPhone giveaway
Pagcor fined a gambling firm P1 million for promoting Ivana Alawi's iPhone giveaway without permission during a House budget hearing.Summary
During the House of Representatives' committee on appropriations budget hearing for 2027, Pagcor chairman Alejandro Tengco announced that the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation imposed a P1 million fine on a gambling firm for sponsoring influencer Ivana Alawi's giveaway of 100 iPhone 17 Pro Max units worth P4.28 million in July without seeking permission. Representative Elijah Fernando expressed concern over collaborations between influencers and gambling firms. Tengco warned that further violations could result in heavier fines and potential license cancellations, noting that about 50% of online gaming operators are illegal. Pagcor coordinates with government agencies to take down illegal gambling sites, and some influencers have withdrawn sponsorships to work with legal operators instead.
(Source：Rappler)