5 congressmen propose Anti-Online Gambling Promotions in E-Wallets Act

Five congressmen have proposed House Bill 721 or the Anti-Online Gambling Promotions in E-Wallets Act at the House of Representatives on July 1.

The bill prohibits e-wallet operators from redirecting users to online gambling platforms, distributing information on gambling activities, displaying advertisements for gambling, and promoting such activities to the public.

Violators will face fines ranging from P100,000 to P5 million, with a third offense resulting in permanent revocation of their business license.

Bukidnon 2nd District Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores stated that his bill aims to limit accessibility to online gambling through e-wallets rather than banning it outright.

Flores highlighted the ease with which users can top up P50 and access gambling platforms, emphasizing the need for stricter controls to prevent addiction and financial harm.

Several measures have been filed before the House of the 20th Congress seeking to regulate online gambling further, including calls from Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon and Akbayan party-list Reps. Chel Diokno and Percival Cendaña.