President Marcos issues statement over online gambling ban debate
The Philippine government is facing renewed pressure to act against online gambling, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. warning that irresponsible use of digital platforms is tearing Filipino families apart.
In a video message posted over the weekend, President Marcos stated that while technology is intended to improve life and promote national unity, it is increasingly being misused for online scams, disinformation, and gambling.
“Many families are being destroyed by it [online gambling], especially if it is used irresponsibly,” the President said. “Technology should help make Filipino families successful and united, not destroy them.”
The President’s remarks come amid increasing demands from lawmakers and civil society for stricter regulations or even a complete ban on online gambling, which critics argue has become alarmingly accessible, particularly to younger individuals.
Whispers behind closed doors
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed that the administration is still studying the broader consequences of banning all forms of online gambling. He said the government is aware of the social risks involved but is also considering the economic implications.
“The policy remains the same,” Bersamin said. “The President is very strong about POGOs [Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators]. POGOs are already banned. But as for other types of online gaming, we are still looking into the ramifications.”
Senators, including Sherwin Gatchalian, Risa Hontiveros, Pia Cayetano, and Alan Peter Cayetano are among those calling for a total ban. Gatchalian has proposed new legislation that would penalise not only operators but also influencers, advertising agencies, and payment platforms that promote or facilitate illegal online gambling.
Opposition joins senator’s call
Vice President Sara Duterte has also voiced concern. Speaking during a visit to The Hague, she said she is firmly against all forms of online gambling, citing risks to young people who may become addicted and fall into debt.
“I support regulated gambling, but placing these platforms online makes them too easy to access. That, I do not support,” she said. The Department of Finance recently floated proposals to increase taxes and tighten regulations on online gambling operators, as part of broader fiscal reforms.
Meanwhile, 14 licensed online gaming operators released a joint statement rejecting the idea of a complete ban on online gaming. The companies, all licensed by state regulator PAGCOR, argued that prohibition would only push users towards unregulated and unsafe platforms. “Prohibition does not erase online gaming. It only erases the safeguards that protect the Filipino people,” the statement read.
Big announcement likely?
The group highlighted safety measures, including multi-factor authentication, age verification, and self-exclusion options. They also highlighted their economic contribution, noting that online gaming generated PHP 54 billion (€848 million) in 2024 alone.
The operators said they are open to stricter oversight, claiming that legitimate businesses “do not fear tougher rules—they welcome them.” However, they warned that handing the industry over to black-market operators would do more harm than good.
With the President’s annual State of the Nation Address (SONA) set for 28 July 2025, the nation is watching closely to see whether he will declare a comprehensive policy shift or an outright ban.
