The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) has issued two recent site-blocking requests to internet service providers (ISPs) against platforms caught illegally streaming Filipino films, as part of its crackdown against online piracy.

The first request was for the blocking of 13 FreeCine-related sites, including freecineplus.com, freecine.ph, freecineph.com, freecine.com.co and freecine.site, following a complaint from Viva Communications and its streaming service Vivamax.

The request was based on the complaint filed by Viva Communications and Vovamax.

Viva reported that FreeCine had been illegally offering and distributing its copyrighted titles, including Bedspace, Dilig” and Room Service, through its mobile app, without any license or authorisation.

“The FreeCine application contains unauthorized copies of cinematographic works, including those owned by them and allows users to stream or download these for free,” the complaint stated.

The second site-blocking request was lodged against Asyaminik, also based on a complaint by Viva, this time involving titles streamed on its Viva One platform, such as Chasing in the Wild, Safe Skies Archer, The Rain in España and Avenues of the Diamond.

“The Content were illegally made available for viewing to the public via online streaming within the pages of Asyaminik nd full copies of the content could be downloaded within Asyaminik for later or offline viewing, all of which acts are unauthorised by Complainant and are therefore illegal and are an infringement of Complainant’s copyright and other intellectual property rights,” the complaint stated.

Both site-blocking actions were carried out by the Enforcement Division under Memorandum Circular 23-025, or the Rules on Voluntary Administrative Site Blocking, which provides a mechanism for swift action against online piracy in coordination with internet service providers.

The recent issuances align with the celebration of National Anti-Piracy Month this October pursuant to Proclamation 596 signed in 2018. The observance aims to raise public awareness on the various forms of media piracy and counterfeiting and their adverse effects on the economy.

“IPOPHL’s ongoing anti-piracy drive signals our continued commitment to the protection of the intellectual property rights of the Philippine creative industries, which serve as a vital driver of our economy,” said Acting Director General Nathaniel S. Arevalo. “We will continue to use every tool available, including site-blocking measures, to crack down on those who disrespect Filipino artists who pour their heart and soul into their creations but also ensure a safe and secure digital landscape that can showcase the works of the country.”

He also urged the public to stream and consume content through legal means to do their share in helping creatives flourish, adding: Every small deed makes a difference. Let us all defend the digital space in any way we can so legitimate creators can thrive.”

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Tags: Philippines, piracy