A proposed law aiming to completely prohibit online gambling in the Philippines is gaining significant momentum. Lawmakers from both the Senate and the House of Representatives have voiced their support for this measure.
Representative Benny Abante’s House Bill 1876 seeks a comprehensive ban on online gambling and remote betting. This initiative is gathering support within a Philippine government increasingly divided on the issue. Senator Raffy Tulfo has announced his intention to introduce similar legislation, opting for a total ban on online gaming instead of merely advocating for stricter regulations.
Senator Tulfo further expressed his concern over the escalating problem of online gambling addiction in the country, urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to address the issue. He also called upon PAGCOR, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, to ban all forms of online gambling advertising. He additionally suggested an investigation into potential government complicity in the rapid growth of online gambling and the resulting surge in addiction.
Representative Abante described online gambling as “a virus,” a destructive addiction undermining societal values and causing financial hardship for Filipino families. Echoing this sentiment, Senator Tulfo characterized the situation as a worsening epidemic requiring immediate collective action.
Recently, PAGCOR directed the removal of gambling advertisement billboards from public areas. While the regulator has also supported stricter gambling laws, it opposes a complete ban, citing concerns about a potential surge in illegal gambling activities.
These recent legislative proposals follow the significant controversy surrounding Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) that dominated Philippine gambling news throughout much of 2024, culminating in the complete prohibition of POGOs.
