Senators push for stricter online gambling regulation

Senator Risa Hontiveros is calling for stricter regulation of online gambling due to current laws failing to keep up with technological advancements.

Hontiveros cited numerous cases where families have sought help for loved ones addicted to online gambling, leading to debt and even suicide, emphasizing the urgent need for action.

She has filed a bill to limit access to online gambling through e-wallets and super apps, highlighting how digital platforms make it easy for Filipinos, especially the youth, to gamble via their phones.

Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito echoed concerns about digital wallets facilitating online gambling, drawing parallels to the banned e-sabong operations that caused widespread debt and family ruin.

Ejercito criticized e-wallets for enabling gambling behavior and debt accumulation among vulnerable users, urging the government to impose stronger regulations on platforms allowing such transactions.

Major casino resort operators have expressed their commitment to comply with existing laws and regulations, but Hontiveros stressed that adherence is not enough; action to tighten access to online gambling is necessary.