Health Secretary Supports Online Gambling Regulation
MANILA, Philippines — Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa has voiced strong support for efforts to either ban or impose strict regulations on online gambling, highlighting addiction as a serious mental health issue. He stressed that gambling’s widespread accessibility makes it highly addictive, impacting many families across the country.
“Addiction to gambling is a mental health problem, so nakita niyo na marami pamilya na lulong sa gambling kasi it’s very accessible,” Herbosa said during an impromptu interview at a forum in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
Herbosa added, “So I agree with both, either you want to ban it, that’s fine with me, or you want to regulate it.”
Proposals to Control Online Gambling Gain Momentum
Earlier this month, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri introduced a bill proposing a complete ban on online gambling in the Philippines. He described the issue as a “silent epidemic” that quietly harms Filipinos, particularly minors and vulnerable groups.
Zubiri’s Anti-Online Gambling Act of 2025 aims to prohibit all forms of online betting, including digital platforms, mobile apps, and websites that facilitate wagering through phones, tablets, or computers.
In contrast, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian filed a bill on July 1 advocating for tighter regulation rather than a full ban. His proposed law would ban gambling sponsorships of public events and political campaigns. It would also channel a portion of regulatory fees toward addiction rehabilitation centers.
The bill proposes a minimum cash-in limit to discourage spontaneous gambling via e-wallets and raises the legal gambling age from 18 to 21.
Balancing Regulation and Industry Impact
Advocacy group CitizensWatch Philippines recommends strengthening regulations instead of imposing an outright ban. They warn that a total ban could push the industry underground, making it harder to regulate and increasing users’ exposure to illegal offshore operators beyond the country’s reach.
According to the group, the legal online gambling sector is a crucial source of public funds, generating an estimated P50 billion in 2024. Half of this revenue supports universal healthcare, grassroots sports, and drug rehabilitation programs.
They also cautioned that banning online gambling could cost the country up to P100 billion in projected future earnings.
For more news and updates on online gambling regulation, visit Filipinokami.com.
