President Marcos to Convene Online Gambling Stakeholders
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced plans to gather all stakeholders involved in online gambling to create a clear government policy. This move aims to address the complex issues surrounding the industry and its social impact.
In the third episode of the “PBBM Podcast” titled “Sa Likod ng Sona,” Marcos was asked why online gambling was absent from his recent State of the Nation Address. He explained that the government has yet to finalize its stance on the matter.
“Because we had not—we still have to form the policy on what we are going to do about online gambling,” the president said. He added that he has begun organizing a conference with all concerned parties to discuss the way forward.
Inclusive Talks To Shape Online Gambling Policy
Marcos emphasized that the stakeholders include groups advocating for a total ban, such as the church and bishops, along with parents of those affected by online gambling. He stressed the importance of also engaging regulators and operators if the government decides to implement controls.
“And then—well, we have to talk to the people who will if we decide to regulate, who will be doing the regulation?” Marcos noted, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach.
Concerns Over Total Ban and Social Impact
The president expressed concerns that a complete ban could push online gambling underground, making it harder for the government to monitor and control. Instead, he wants to focus on preventing addiction and the harmful social consequences tied to gambling.
“With online gambling in general, what is the problem we are trying to solve? We’re trying to solve is that for people not to be hooked on gambling and debts,” Marcos explained. He pointed out the urgent need to protect children from learning gambling habits.
“Children learning to gamble. Let’s focus on that. How can we stop that? These are the things that we are going to examine and we will come up with a plan to make sure that we address the problem,” he added.
Marcos concluded by clarifying that the core issue is not online gambling itself but the social effects on children and those struggling with addiction.
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