URGENT UPDATE: Philippine Senator Christopher Go has just proposed a complete ban on online gambling, introducing Senate Bill 686, also known as the Anti-Online Gambling Act 2025. This significant legislative move aims to criminalize all forms of Internet gambling, imposing strict penalties for offenders.
The proposed bill outlines severe fines of up to $10,000 and potential prison sentences of up to six months for individuals who engage in online wagering. Senator Go is targeting not only players but also those who host gambling activities, with penalties including up to five years in prison along with the hefty fines.
Senator Go emphasizes the critical need for these measures, citing soaring social costs associated with gambling in the Philippines. This ban comes at a time when the government is intensifying its efforts to regulate the gambling industry. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has already taken steps to curb gambling promotions by blocking physical billboard advertisements and mandating that gambling promoters submit their materials for pre-screening.
Amid ongoing discussions, the government is also considering additional measures to increase accountability within the gambling sector. One proposal includes imposing an extra 10% tax on all gambling companies, which could generate approximately $350 million for the economy. Another suggestion is to require online gambling companies to list on the local stock exchange for enhanced transparency.
As the debate heats up, there are competing bills aimed at regulating the gambling landscape, but no consensus has emerged yet. Alongside Senator Go’s proposal, other measures are being reviewed, including a full suspension of online gambling and restrictions on payment methods like e-wallets.
This legislative push highlights the urgency of addressing gambling-related issues in the Philippines, impacting countless individuals and families. The situation is developing rapidly, and the public will be watching closely as these proposals could reshape the future of gambling in the country.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds and the fate of online gambling hangs in the balance.
