The Daily Tribune
DEPDev opposes online gambling, studies tax-based mitigation
The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) opposes online gambling due to concerns about its detrimental effects on public morality and finances.
Despite opposition, economic managers are exploring tax-based regulations for online gambling and will seek President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s guidance.
This discussion follows President Marcos Jr.'s prohibition of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO) in July 2024 due to associated criminal activities.
DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan stated that online gambling presents similar social issues to POGO operations, leading to the department's stance against it.
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri has filed Senate Bill 142 to ban all forms of online gambling and reject any proposals for taxing its providers, aiming to curb public consumption.
Zubiri highlighted instances where farmers lost P500 to P1,000 per game, and a teenager committed suicide after spending some of his parents' savings to play.
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President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. is exploring measures to address the growing issue of online gambling addiction and is sympathetic to affected families.
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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is currently reviewing proposals for a complete prohibition of online gambling within the Philippines, with Malacañang stating that the decision is being carefully considered for its potential economic and social ramifications.
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Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman Alejandro Tengco opposes a total ban on online gambling, warning of significant revenue losses for the government.
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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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House lawmakers have initiated legislative inquiries into the proliferation and potential harms of online gambling in the Philippines.
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