More than 50,000 jobs may be lost if proposals to ban legal online gaming in the Philippines push through, according to industry data, with stakeholders urging stricter regulation instead of prohibition.
In 2024 alone, licensed online platforms contributed over ₱112 billion to the government, including funds for PhilHealth, the national treasury, and various social programs.
Industry leaders argue that banning legal platforms would only boost black-market gambling, erasing crucial safeguards and public benefits.
Global cases like Colombia, Germany, and Singapore show that regulation—not prohibition—significantly reduces illegal gambling.
With the government facing fiscal pressure and a ₱16.4 trillion debt, experts say cutting off this regulated revenue stream would be counterproductive.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 23, 2025
