Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is drafting a law that will penalize not only operators of illegal online gambling sites but also promoters such as influencers, advertisers, and e-wallet providers.
He cited findings that many endorsers unknowingly promote illegal gambling platforms, which pose risks to public welfare and avoid paying taxes.
While Gatchalian’s bill targets those linked to illegal gambling, other senators like Juan Miguel Zubiri and Loren Legarda are pushing for a total ban on all forms of online gambling due to its social harms.
In contrast, PAGCOR and consumer groups like CitizenWatch Philippines advocate for smarter regulation instead of outright bans, emphasizing the economic benefits and the need to protect players through technology.
They propose using AI and fintech tools to enforce responsible gambling while preserving revenues that fund public programs.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 20, 2025
Latest from Politics
The Makabayan bloc rejected the proposed PHP7.2-trillion 2027 National Expenditure Program, saying it prioritizes infrastructure projects
Malacañang said Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste and former Negros Oriental Rep. Jacinto Paras may present evidence
Hagonoy, Bulacan was placed under a state of calamity after floods affected 26 barangays due to
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos attended the opening of the Presidential
Senate Finance Committee chair Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito vowed that no “leadership fund” would be included
