Philippine Senator Proposes Complete Ban on Online Gambling
Senator Proposes Total Online Gambling Ban in the Philippines
The Philippines is currently undergoing significant changes regarding gambling regulations. Amid various discussions and uncertainty, Senator Christopher Go has introduced Senate Bill 686, known as the Anti-Online Gambling Act 2025, aiming to enforce a full prohibition of online gambling across the country.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Legislation
Senator Go’s bill seeks to criminalize all online gambling activities. Individuals caught placing bets on internet platforms would face penalties including imprisonment for up to six months and fines reaching approximately $10,000. The bill also targets operators and hosts of online gambling services, prescribing up to five years in prison along with similar financial penalties for those facilitating these illicit activities.
Motivation Behind the Bill
The senator emphasizes that the escalating social problems linked to gambling necessitate these tough measures. The bill aims to curb the negative social impact and financial harm caused by widespread online gambling.
Current Regulatory Environment and Government Actions
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the nation’s gambling regulator, has already taken steps to limit gambling advertisements by banning billboards and public ads. Additionally, a new agreement is under consideration that would require gambling companies to submit promotional material for media review before publication.
Apart from this bill, the government is exploring alternative measures to increase gambling industry accountability. One proposal involves imposing an extra 10% tax on gambling firms, potentially generating around $350 million in additional revenue.
Other Proposals and Regulatory Debates
Another discussed idea is to mandate gambling companies to list on the local stock exchange, which would improve transparency in their operations. The authorities are also deliberating a temporary suspension of online gambling licenses and considering banning electronic wallets as payment options for gambling services. Stricter advertising regulations are also on the table to further control the industry’s exposure.
Ongoing Legislative Uncertainty
Senator Go’s Anti-Online Gambling Act represents just one of several competing legislative proposals addressing the future of gambling regulation in the Philippines. Despite these multiple efforts, there remains no consensus on which approach will ultimately shape the sector’s direction.