Senator Proposes Online Gambling Access Ban in E-Wallets
MANILA, Philippines — A senator has submitted a bill targeting the ban of online gambling access in e-wallets and super apps amid rising concerns. The measure aims to address the growing calls for stricter controls on gambling platforms, which have reportedly turned into dangerous gateways to addiction for many Filipinos.
Among her top 20 priority bills for the 20th Congress, Senator Risa Hontiveros stressed that gambling addiction has become easier due to its accessibility via e-wallets and super apps. “Many Filipinos are burdened with debt because of online gambling, which was made easier by e-wallets. For some, life has been the equivalent of such,” she said in Filipino.
Key Provisions to Curb Gambling Addiction
The bill specifically bans individuals under 21 years old from accessing online gambling platforms. It also prohibits advertising of online gambling in public areas, traditional media, and social media outlets. Senator Hontiveros emphasized, “Let us also put an end to many billboards, commercials, and social media ads which encourage gambling. It’s like we’re encouraging our people to be in debt. This vice needs not to encourage anyone to be in debt.”
The measure mandates the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) to implement daily, weekly, and monthly betting limits. Once these limits are reached, gaming accounts will be suspended for at least 30 days. Hontiveros explained in Filipino, “Because there are no limitations in gambling, what’s happening is that some do it until they no longer have money. This results to unli-debt and unli-problems, that’s why we need to set a limit to where we spend.”
Funding Support for Rehabilitation and Education
Additionally, the bill proposes a minimum 10% tax on gross online gambling revenues. These funds will support treatment and rehabilitation programs for gambling addiction, public education campaigns, enforcement efforts, and research for policy evaluation. “Let us help our people get past this and ensure that no more will be addicted to online gambling. One life lost to gambling is one too many,” Hontiveros stated in a mix of Filipino and English.
A similar bill was filed in the House of Representatives by Akbayan and other lawmakers, reflecting a growing legislative push against online gambling.
Government Response and Ongoing Efforts
The Palace has confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is closely monitoring the situation of Filipinos struggling with online gambling addiction. Local leaders noted the urgency of addressing this public health and social concern.
For more news and updates on online gambling access ban, visit Filipinokami.com.