The Philippine legislature is currently spearheading a comprehensive ban on online gambling. Recent developments indicate that a bill aimed at completely prohibiting both online and offline gambling activities has garnered support from several influential members of both the Senate and the House, marking a significant shift in the country's regulatory stance towards the gambling industry.
The bill, House Bill No. 1876, proposed by senior Manila Representative Benny Abante, has now become a focal point of policy discussions. Not only does the bill call for a total ban on online gambling, but it also extends regulatory measures to traditional betting methods. Notably, Senator Raffy Tulfo has publicly stated his intention to introduce a complementary bill, emphasizing: "Rather than crafting cumbersome regulatory statutes, it's better to eradicate this social cancer outright."
Political Call for Presidential Intervention in the Crisis
In a parliamentary inquiry, Senator Tulfo specifically called on President Marcos to address the public health crisis triggered by online gambling. He revealed statistics showing that the addiction rate to online gambling in the Philippines has surged by 240% over the past three years, demanding that the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) immediately halt all related advertising. This senator, known for his anti-corruption stance, also disclosed explosive information: "There is evidence that some government officials have improper ties with the gambling industry," and has formally requested the anti-corruption agency to initiate an investigation.
In a congressional debate, Representative Abante delivered a shocking speech: "Online gambling is not just a common vice, but an electronic virus eroding the foundations of society. It destroys family finances, distorts the values of youth, and six out of every ten bankrupt families are related to gambling debts." Senator Tulfo warned of the crisis using a public health framework: "We are experiencing a social epidemic more covert than the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring a nationwide preventive response."
It is noteworthy that PAGCOR has recently taken substantial measures, ordering the removal of gambling billboards nationwide. Although the agency remains cautious about a complete ban, fearing it might lead to a $5 billion underground market, its new chairman has clearly stated his intention to cooperate with the legislative body to refine the regulatory framework.
Historical Background of the Policy Shift
This legislative wave coincides with the complete collapse of the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) system. Following a series of scandals exposed in 2024, the government has revoked all POGO licenses, and this new bill is seen as the "final battle" to thoroughly cleanse the gambling industry. Analysts note that with the combined pressure from religious groups, educational institutions, and parent organizations, the probability of the bill's passage has risen to over 70%.
