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Senator files bill to tighten policies on online gambling
A bill has been filed in the House of Representatives seeking to regulate online gambling platforms to combat worsening gambling addiction, particularly among the youth.
House Bill No. 1351, also known as the Kontra E-Sugal Bill, proposes to restrict access to online gambling to individuals aged 21 and above.
The bill mandates online gambling platforms to require government-issued identification for user registration.
It also prohibits e-wallets and super apps from advertising or linking to online gambling sites and bans such advertisements in public spaces.
Under the proposed legislation, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) would be responsible for setting betting and loss limits, with automatic suspension for breaches.
A 10 percent tax on online gambling is proposed to fund addiction rehabilitation, education, enforcement, and research.
Akbayan Rep. Jose Manuel Tadeo "Chel" Diokno emphasized the need for a comprehensive government approach to address the negative impacts of online gambling on citizens' lives and aspirations.
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Senators Pia and Alan Peter Cayetano have filed a bill proposing a ban on all forms of online gambling in the Philippines, citing its addictive nature and association with criminal activities.
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Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed the "Kontra E-Sugal Act" to ban online gambling access through e-wallets and super apps, aiming to safeguard Filipinos from its harmful effects.
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Five congressmen filed House Bill 721, the proposed Anti-Online Gambling Promotions in E-Wallets Act, aiming to prohibit e-wallets from facilitating online gambling.
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The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is open to stricter regulations on online gambling and will abide by laws passed by Congress.
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Senator Risa Hontiveros is calling for stricter regulations on online gambling due to its rapid growth and accessibility through mobile apps, which she believes is exacerbating addiction across the Philippines.
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