Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is approaching the issue of online gambling reform with caution, indicating that his administration prefers to conduct a thorough analysis of its social and economic impact before implementing any policy changes.
As reported by the Philippine News Agency, this includes the possibility of banning online gambling altogether, but only after careful consideration.
The announcement followed criticism from lawmakers who were frustrated that the President did not address the issue in his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA). Responding to this, Presidential Communications Office press officer Claire Castro stated that the administration acknowledges the urgency but aims to first identify the root causes of online gambling addiction. She stressed the importance of distinguishing between regulated and illegal platforms when developing policy.
The call for stronger regulation has grown amid increasing reports of Filipinos being harmed by online gambling. Lawmakers and regulators are also alarmed by the growing ties between digital gambling, online lending, and cybercrime.
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva has called on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to strengthen oversight of digital financial services, especially lending apps, which are frequently linked to both illegal gambling and predatory practices. He warned of a troubling pattern where financially vulnerable individuals-including overseas Filipino workers—resort to high-interest loan apps after gambling losses.
Data from the Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC) reportedly show a strong link between cybercrimes and the rise of both online lending and gambling platforms. In addition, former staff from banned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are allegedly trying to re-enter the market using different identities.
Villanueva questioned the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s (PAGCOR) screening of license applicants and the effectiveness of its responsible gambling initiatives. He has since filed Senate Bill No. 47, proposing a complete ban on online gambling and the repeal of laws that currently allow it, arguing that the social costs outweigh any tax revenue.
Senator Erwin Tulfo, the new chair of the Senate Committee on Games and Amusement, echoed these concerns. He announced plans to launch a formal inquiry into the societal impact of online gambling and said he personally supports a full ban. Tulfo expressed confidence that the committee would adopt a firm anti-gambling stance.
