Stricter Age Checks and Advertising Limits Proposed
A new bill in the Philippine House of Representatives aims to limit youth access to online gambling amid growing concerns about gambling addiction among young Filipinos.
As reported by ABS-CBN, House Bill No. 1351—known as the Kontra E-Sugal Bill—was introduced by the Anakbayan party-list. It seeks to create a nationwide framework restricting gambling platform access to those aged 21 and above. Additionally, users would need valid government-issued IDs to register.
Ban on Gambling Ads and Promotions via Apps
Furthermore, the proposed legislation would prohibit e-wallets and “super apps” from promoting gambling-related content. Advertising online gambling in public spaces would also be banned.
Under the bill, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) would oversee daily, weekly, and monthly loss limits for players. Should users exceed those limits, their accounts would be suspended automatically.
Tax Revenue for Prevention and Treatment
Importantly, the bill proposes a 10% tax on online gambling revenues. Funds collected would support addiction rehabilitation, public education, and enforcement efforts.
A Broader Push Across Southeast Asia
This legislative effort echoes similar moves throughout Southeast Asia, where governments are tightening controls on online gambling to protect minors and vulnerable groups.
Moreover, PAGCOR would manage a national self-exclusion list, allowing individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling platforms. The bill stresses a “comprehensive, evidence-based and multi-sectoral” approach to curb gambling-related harm.
Parallel Measures in House and Senate
Separately, House Bill No. 721 aims to block e-wallets from promoting online betting altogether. In the Senate, Senators Pia and Alan Peter Cayetano have filed a counterpart measure. Their proposal includes penalties for operators and suggests creating an Online Gambling Control Task Force under the Office of the President.
Meanwhile, PAGCOR has reiterated its commitment to support any laws passed and to continue efforts against illegal online gambling.
