Philippines Internet Providers Begin Blocking Access to Major Crypto Exchanges

Internet users in the Philippines are starting to see familiar cryptocurrency platforms disappear from their browsers. Over the past week, several traders have reported that they can no longer reach the websites of well-known exchanges such as OKX, Bybit, and Bitget.

Good to know

• The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) recently flagged 10 exchanges for operating without a license.
• Website blocks are live, but mobile app access is still working — for now.
• Licensed local exchanges remain available, though traders say token choices are limited.

The disruption began shortly after the SEC’s warning on Monday, which listed 10 unregistered platforms. Local internet service providers have started restricting access to those sites following the notice. For now, the apps remain functional, but traders expect that access could be cut soon based on past enforcement trends.

A Familiar Pattern for Crypto Users in the Philippines

This is not the first time regulators have taken this route. In early 2024, Binance faced the same treatment. The SEC first asked the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to block its website in March, then urged Google and Apple to remove the Binance app from Philippine app stores the following month.

Some traders now believe the same playbook could be used against the newly listed exchanges. While there is no official confirmation of an app ban yet, the SEC’s previous actions suggest it’s a likely next step.

Crypto trading is still legal in the Philippines, but with a key condition — only platforms licensed by the SEC are allowed to operate. For active traders, the new restrictions mean turning to local licensed exchanges, which some claim have fewer available tokens and less competitive rates compared to the now-blocked international platforms.

One Manila-based trader told peers in an online group that switching to local platforms has made certain trading pairs unavailable. Others say the price spreads on some coins are wider, making quick trades less attractive.

The Regulatory Push

The SEC has been clear about its stance — protecting investors by ensuring only compliant platforms operate in the country. By targeting unlicensed exchanges, the agency aims to push trading activity toward regulated operators where rules on security, transparency, and dispute resolution are enforced.

With more website blocks expected, traders who rely on international exchanges may have to adjust quickly or risk losing access to their accounts without warning.