MANILA — Senators Pia Cayetano and Risa Hontiveros have called for tougher regulations on online gambling, warning of its deepening impact on Filipino families and urging government agencies, tech platforms, and payment providers to take immediate action.

Senator Cayetano lauded recent moves by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to curtail the promotion of illegal online gambling. She welcomed the DICT’s order for influencers to remove gambling-related content and praised PAGCOR’s directive to take down gambling billboards and advertisements nationwide.

“This move to limit the aggressive promotion of gambling is a critical step in creating a safer and more responsible environment for all, especially our youth,” Cayetano said.

Describing online gambling as a “silent epidemic,” Cayetano said it has crept into homes, classrooms, and workplaces through mobile access, with minors, students, and even working adults falling into cycles of addiction, debt, and despair.

To address this, she filed the proposed Ban on Online Gambling Act as part of her priority legislation in the 20th Congress. The bill seeks to explicitly prohibit all forms of online gambling, restrict its promotion through social media and e-wallets, and raise awareness about its dangers.

“I also call on payment platforms like e-wallet providers to take the responsible path and stop enabling these gambling ventures,” Cayetano urged. “If we are serious about addressing this issue, everyone—from regulators to service providers—must act in the interest of public welfare.”

Senator Hontiveros echoed similar concerns, noting that while land-based casinos may comply with existing regulations, the ease of access to online gambling via mobile apps and digital wallets has left many vulnerable, especially the youth.

“Our laws are being left behind by the rapid pace of technology,” Hontiveros said. “That’s why we’ve filed a bill to limit access to online gambling, particularly in e-wallets and super apps.”

Hontiveros revealed that her Senate office has received numerous distress calls from families affected by gambling addiction. “These are reports of loved ones who have become addicted, buried in debt, and who’ve taken their own lives due to this vice,” she said.

Calling for compassion and accountability, Hontiveros said: “It’s not enough that we follow the law. We also need to care. We need to act together.”

Both senators underscored that the government and private sector must move decisively to curb online gambling before more lives are harmed.