Report Revenue vs Morality: The Debate Over Online Gambling in the Philippines

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Photo courtesy of Inquirer

 

In the Philippines, a significant clash of perspectives emerges as the Catholic Church amplifies its call for a complete ban on online gambling, despite ongoing government and private sector efforts to tighten access. Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), argued at the 11th Philippine Conference on New Evangelization in Manila that the societal harms far outweigh the financial benefits.

 

Cardinal David disclosed receiving a detailed rebuttal from Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) chair Alejandro Tengco, who defended the role of online gambling in generating substantial revenue for government social programmes. Tengco, in a letter, highlighted the financial void a ban would create, as it currently contributes over PHP 100 billion (approximately THB 61 billion) and supports 32,000 jobs, including those in ancillary sectors.

 

However, David robustly challenged this stance, pointing to the addictive nature of online gambling and its destructive impact on families. He controversially likened the approval of online gambling to legalising harmful substances like shabu (crystal meth), underscoring the parallel logic in favouring economic gain over social well-being.

 

David questioned the feasibility of restricting tech-savvy youth from accessing online platforms, despite assurances from stakeholders. “Do you really believe that you can control digital natives?” he queried, casting doubt on existing regulatory measures.

 

The cardinal further equated online gambling to "modern-day slavery," citing the many impacted by gambling debts and the erosion of social skills akin to social media addictions. He portrayed the Church as a bastion of liberation against these social maladies, urging community support and openness as a shield against addiction.

 

Meanwhile, the CBCP continues to press for decisive government action, labelling the situation a “moral crisis” and advocating for tighter regulation of online payment systems to stifle gambling access.

 

While President Marcos has yet to express a formal stance, Malacañang indicates a careful review of the implications related to banning online gambling. Financial entities within the Fintech Alliance Philippines, including industry leaders GCash and Maya, are reported to be bolstering due diligence to regulate access. GCash recently revised its policies to curb online gambling promotions, aiming for heightened compliance with legal standards.

 

Efforts by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas now aim at reinforcing restrictions on digital payment platforms, proposing daily transfer caps and stringent checks for e-game operators.

 

Pagcor and the Ad Standards Council formalised a July memorandum to regulate gambling advertisements comprehensively, reflecting a broader, multi-faceted approach to addressing the issue. Several lawmakers have also introduced bills to either regulate or prohibit online gambling, citing its detrimental effects on vulnerable groups, notably minors.

 

As the debate continues, the clash between economic considerations and societal obligations remains at the forefront of national discourse, with the Church urging for a shift towards prioritising community welfare over fiscal gain.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Inquirer 2025-07-21