Philippine Lawmaker Proposes Ban on All Online Gambling
A Philippine legislator has put forward a measure to outlaw all types of internet wagering in the nation.
The measure, titled the “Anti-Online Gambling Act,” is presently under consideration by the legislative panel.
Senator Joel Villanueva, who introduced the proposal, stressed the importance of its swift approval, urging for it to be passed “without delay.”
“The repercussions of gambling and online gambling are too grave to overlook,” the bill’s explanatory statement reads. “The price of gambling is no longer confined to the loss of funds but extends to the loss of principles and lives.
“This proposal aims to forbid online gambling, including betting or wagering via the internet or any form of online gambling activity, to prevent further decline in morals and values, encourage individuals to work rather than relying on chance, halt addiction, and preserve lives.”
If enacted, the measure would impose a maximum of six months of confinement or a fine of ₱100,000 (£1,520/€1,737/$1,737) to ₱500,000 on individuals who wager online or knowingly receive online bets.
For businesses that breach the law, the responsible individuals will face a maximum of five years of imprisonment and a ₱500,000 fine.
This new legislation will come into force fifteen days following its publication in the Philippine Gazette or in two significant newspapers.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Department of Justice will be responsible for ensuring compliance with the law within thirty days of its enactment.
Online gambling for Filipinos was recently authorized last year, with companies such as Okada Manila receiving permission to commence operations.
However, the Philippines already possesses a substantial industry of online gambling companies that cater to individuals from other nations, even those that prohibit online gambling, such as China. These companies are known as POGOs and have generated numerous issues. Last year, the National Bureau of Investigation discovered a strong link between POGOs and human trafficking.
Last month, the newly appointed head of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), Alejandro Tengco, indicated that they are contemplating the separation of Pagcor’s regulatory and operational divisions.
