Senator Risa Hontiveros has proposed a new law to ban online gambling through e-wallets and super apps. She said these apps have made it too easy for people to become addicted to gambling.
“Phones are not casinos. Gambling has become too easy because it is now accessible in e-wallets and apps,” said Hontiveros.
She added that many Filipinos have fallen into deep debt because of online gambling, and some have even lost their lives. “With just one click, people can lose everything,” she said.
The proposed law also includes:
- A ban on gambling for anyone under 21 years old.
- A ban on gambling advertisements on billboards, TV commercials, and social media.
“There are too many ads encouraging people to gamble. It’s like pushing people to ruin their lives. We should not allow this,” she said.
The bill also requires the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to set daily, weekly, and monthly betting and loss limits. If a person reaches the limit, their gambling account will be suspended for at least 30 days.
“Right now, there are no limits. That’s why people end up spending too much, getting into too much debt, and suffering too many problems. We need to set boundaries,” Hontiveros stressed.
She ended by saying, “Let’s help those who are already addicted, and protect others from becoming addicted. One life lost to gambling is already too many. I hope my fellow senators will support this bill and listen to the people’s call to control online gambling.”