MANILA, Philippines — The Senate is set to hold a public hearing on Thursday, August 14, on the impact of online gambling, following calls from several lawmakers for a nationwide ban.
Sen. Erwin Tulfo, chair of the Senate Committee on Games and Amusements, said the August 14 hearing will consolidate studies, data and recommendations from key agencies, including the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) the Department of Finance (DOF) and the executive branch.
Tulfo said the inquiry will look into the harmful effects of online gambling on Filipinos, particularly minors. He said he will also invite youth groups, parents, educators and church leaders to testify.
While PAGCOR and the DOF have pushed for stricter regulation and higher taxes instead of a ban, Tulfo maintained he wants the activity prohibited altogether, arguing that regulation could drive more operators “underground.”
Several senators have already filed bills seeking to either regulate or ban online gambling, including its promotion and links to e-wallet services. Senate Bill 47, or the Anti-Online Gambling Act, authored by Sen. Joel Villanueva, is among the chamber’s top 10 priority measures.
The hearing is expected to determine whether a total ban is feasible or if stricter regulations will be pursued.
Watch the Senate hearing at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 14.