LAWMAKERS have filed new bills seeking to ban or tighten regulations on online gambling, citing growing concerns over addiction, financial ruin, and social harm.
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri led the push for a full ban, calling online gambling a “silent epidemic” that affects not only adults but increasingly minors.
“It’s not only the adults who are affected by gambling addiction, but also our youth. For as long as gambling is within reach by almost anyone online, this is a social cancer that will continue to fester,” he said.
His bill seeks to prohibit all forms of online gambling and mandates internet service providers and digital platforms to block gambling sites.
Senator JV Ejercito echoed the concern, describing the industry as a growing social crisis more dangerous than Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).
“There is almost no limitation insofar as access to online gambling is concerned. Anyone can gamble,” Ejercito said.
He warned of severe mental health risks and broken families, and proposed restrictions on e-wallets and stronger regulatory powers for the National Telecommunications Commission to block sites upon request by concerned families.
At the House, Rep. Rolando Valeriano filed House Bill 1455 banning online gambling and e-sabong.
Akbayan Reps. Chel Diokno, Perci Cendaña, and Dadah Kiram Ismula, along with Dinagat Islands Rep. Kaka Bag-ao, filed HB 1351 regulating the online gambling industry. Their measure proposes age limits and strict identity verification to prevent underage gambling.
