Senate Bill Seeks Tighter Rules vs Online Gambling

The ease of gambling online might soon be put under much heavier control.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has filed a new bill aiming to introduce stricter regulations around online gambling in the Philippines. His concern centers on how digital platforms and e-wallets have made betting more accessible than ever, and, in many cases, more dangerous.

Gatchalian explained that online gambling has led to a rise in mental health issues, financial problems, addictive behavior, and even crime. He pointed to the role of e-wallets like Scatter, which make it easy for users to fund gambling accounts instantly, removing barriers that might otherwise stop impulsive behavior.

The proposed bill outlines several key changes. It aims to:

• Ban gambling-related sponsorships at public events
• Prohibit campaign donations from gambling operators
• Raise the minimum legal age for online gambling from 18 to 21
• Set a minimum cash-in requirement
• Ban the use of GCash and similar e-wallets for gambling purposes
• Use part of the collected regulatory fees to build rehabilitation centers for gambling addiction

The bill isn't just about blocking access. It's also about building a system that protects individuals and helps those already struggling with addiction.

While this is the Senate’s latest move, it's part of a larger conversation already taking place in Congress. Previous statements from lawmakers like Bukidnon Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores and Manila Rep. Rolando Valeriano reflect growing worry over the role e-wallets play in making gambling too easy and too accessible, especially for the youth and lower-income sectors.

Senator Gatchalian’s bill brings the focus back to policy and prevention, highlighting the need for balance between digital convenience and public safety.