Citing a "silent epidemic" quietly harming Filipinos, Senator Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri has filed a bill seeking an outright ban on all forms of online gambling within the Philippines. The proposed measure, aptly named the “Anti-Online Gambling Act of 2025,” aims to curb what the senator describes as a growing danger mirroring, and in some ways surpassing, the concerns previously raised about Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
Senator Zubiri drew a stark parallel between the two threats. “We already shut the doors on POGOs for the damage they caused. But an even more dangerous problem has crept into our homes: online gambling that targets our own people,” he stated.
He emphasized the evolving nature of gambling addiction. "Let’s not kid ourselves. Iba na ang itsura ng gambling addiction ngayon. Hindi na ito yung lulong ang isang tao sa casino o sa sabungan. It now looks like a kid with a phone under the covers at 2 a.m., losing the family’s grocery money on an online casino site,” Zubiri explained, highlighting the ease of access for vulnerable individuals, including minors.
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Comprehensive Ban and Stiff Penalties
The proposed legislation is comprehensive, prohibiting all forms of online gambling in the country, moving beyond simple regulation to an outright ban. This includes digital betting platforms, mobile applications, and websites that allow users to place wagers through phones, tablets, and computers. The bill's scope extends to both locally and offshore-operated gambling sites that cater to Filipino users.
Crucially, the bill mandates Internet Service Providers (ISPs), mobile network operators, and digital platforms to block access to gambling websites and remove related applications within 72 hours upon receiving notice from the Department of Justice or PAGCOR. Failure to comply promptly could lead to significant fines, license suspension, or even revocation of their authority to operate.
Furthermore, digital wallets and payment service providers, such as credit cards, GCash, and Paymaya, will be barred from facilitating transactions related to online gambling.
The bill also targets entities involved in promotion and advertising. Any entity that aids in placing bets, promoting gambling content, or advertising betting sites – whether through traditional media, social media, or influencer marketing – will be held liable.
Violators face severe penalties under the proposed act:
- First offense: A fine of at least P20 million and a six-month license suspension.
- Second violation: A fine of P50 million or a full-year suspension.
- Third offense: A fine of at least P100 million, permanent license revocation, and criminal prosecution of top executives with up to six years of imprisonment.
"Ang masakit dito, mga bata na ang nahuhumaling. Madali para sa kanila na magpanggap ng edad, gumawa ng fake account at makapasok sa mga site na ito (What’s painful here is that even children are getting hooked. It’s easy for them to fake their age, create fake accounts, and gain access to these sites),” Zubiri lamented. "There is something inherently wrong with the system, that is why I filed this measure to put an end to this once and for all.”
If enacted, the "Anti-Online Gambling Act of 2025" would mark a decisive step by the Philippine government to eliminate online gambling within its borders and protect its citizens from its associated harms.
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