Senator Win Gatchalian said that tougher online gambling laws are crucial to dismantling underground operations and protecting Filipinos from the dangers of online gambling.

Gatchalian emphasized that a total ban may not sufficiently deter online gambling, citing the case of e-sabong, which the government has banned but continues to thrive to this day.

“It’s time to have stricter regulations that have real teeth. A ban alone may not be enough. Online gambling operators would likely just move underground, making it even harder for authorities to regulate operations and putting vulnerable Filipinos, especially the youth, at greater risk,” said Gatchalian.

The lawmaker had earlier filed a bill seeking stricter regulations on online gambling to curb the growing addiction of many Filipinos to the vice, which has given rise to many social ills, such as the proliferation of crimes and even mental health issues.

“Kailangan nating mas higpitan pa ang mga regulasyon sa online gambling dahil padami nang padami ang mga Pilipino na nalululong dito at dumadami din ang mga buhay at pangarap na nasisira dahil dito,” he added.