President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. did not touch on the controversial issue of online gambling in his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) because the matter requires further study.
“Let’s not be too hasty. We first need to find out the source of the problem… is it from the licensed online gambling app or the unlicensed ones?” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro told reporters during a press briefing.
The remark came after some lawmakers expressed disappointment over the omission, citing concerns over the growing impact of online gambling on Filipino families, a view shared by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).
Solons and clergymen calling for a total ban on online gambling point out that its social costs significantly outweigh the revenue it contributes to the state’s coffers.
However, Castro emphasized that the administration prefers a data-driven approach before making any changes in the government’s existing policies on the gaming sector.
“The President wants it studied before rushing into any action,” the Palace spokesperson said.
She pointed out that illegal online gambling platforms, rather than licensed operators, may be causing the social issues highlighted by those seeking a total ban.
Citing e-sabong (online cockfighting) as an example, Castro noted that despite its official ban, reports have confirmed its continued underground operation, raising questions about enforcement and who truly benefits from such illegal activities.
The Palace official warned against rushing to shut down licensed online gambling operators without evaluating the broader implications on government revenue and public services.
She noted that some legal gambling entities contribute funds that support students and social programs.
Recently, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) chairman Alejandro Tengco warned that a total ban on online gambling could cost the state over P100 billion in revenues.
Still, CBCP president, Kalookan Archbishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David, wrote PAGCOR a letter criticizing it for the increase in online gambling, stressing that no regulatory actions can truly protect minors and vulnerable populations from its harmful consequences.
“Responsible online gambling is a contradiction in terms,” the prelate wrote.
Likewise, Education Secretary Sonny Angara has called for tighter controls on online gambling platforms that could be luring some students and minors.
The education secretary raised concerns about how some minors could be using funds intended for tuition and other school expenses to gamble online, a behavior he warned could have damaging long-term effects.
