Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has introduced legislation that would outlaw online gambling across the Philippines, citing the growing toll it takes on families, financial stability, and mental health. On July 16, Go filed Senate Bill No. 686, titled the “Anti-Online Gambling Act of 2025,” a measure designed to criminalize the operation, facilitation, and promotion of online betting throughout the country.

Calling the issue a growing social crisis, Go said, “The social cost has grown too big and too deep.” He pointed to widespread cases of individuals gambling away household funds, including money meant for children’s needs like milk, school allowances, and food. “It’s too easy to gamble online. Some even look like they’re just texting, but they’re actually placing bets,” Go added.

Broad penalties for offenders and public officials:

Under the bill, any individual who places, receives, or transmits bets through the internet could face imprisonment of up to six months or fines ranging from ₱100,000 to ₱500,000. For corporate offenders, responsible officers may be sentenced to a maximum of five years in prison and fined ₱500,000. Public officials who promote online gambling will be subject to the harshest penalties, including dismissal from public office and a permanent ban from government service.

In his explanatory note, Go referenced the 1987 Constitution’s directive to establish a just and humane society and argued that the state has the right to restrict practices detrimental to public welfare. He warned that digital gambling platforms, including mobile apps and e-casinos, have normalized gambling and increased its accessibility, especially among minors.

Go said online gambling has fueled a surge in related social issues, including unpaid digital loans, psychological distress, and increased risk of criminal behavior. “There have been cases involving unpaid digital loans, increased anxiety and depression, and mobile apps targeting minors,” he stated.

If passed, the bill would revoke all current laws and administrative issuances that regulate or authorize online gambling in the country. This would effectively remove the legal foundation that underpins current online gaming operations.

According to the Daily Tribune, Go, who chairs both the Senate Health and Youth Committees, emphasized the urgency of shielding young Filipinos from the risks of gambling. “This is wrong. We must protect our youth. In fact, we must protect all Filipinos from the dangers of gambling,” he declared.

Support and opposition within the government and industry:

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa has backed the idea of banning or severely restricting online gambling, pointing to its negative impact on mental health and family well-being. Meanwhile, the Senate’s broader legislative environment is also reflecting momentum toward a total ban.

Go is among several lawmakers advocating for a comprehensive prohibition. He is also a co-author of Senate Bill No. 2868, which seeks to eliminate Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). That bill has already cleared both houses of Congress.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is currently reviewing multiple proposals for a total ban. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro noted that the President is “carefully weighing” the economic consequences against the potential social harms. His final stance is expected during his State of the Nation Address on July 28.

Industry players have pushed back strongly against the proposed ban. DigiPlus Interactive Corp, a leading online gaming operator licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), warned that a ban could push users toward unregulated platforms lacking safeguards, taxes, or accountability.

In a statement to the stock exchange, DigiPlus acknowledged market concerns following the filing of multiple anti-gambling bills and confirmed that it remains “fully operational.” The company added: “We highlight that the bills are still in the early stages of the legislative process and has not been enacted into law.”

Share prices for DigiPlus dropped nearly 30% on Thursday and are down approximately 70% from their 52-week high in June.

PAGCOR Chair Alejandro Tengco has advocated for tighter regulation instead of prohibition, citing the ₱100 billion (US$1.8 billion) in annual revenue that online gambling contributes to public funds. Prominent casinos like Okada Manila, Solaire Resort, and Newport World Resorts have also defended their operations, emphasizing their compliance with regulatory standards and their contributions to the Philippine economy.