The Philippine Senate will soon launch a full investigation into the online gambling industry. This follows mounting pressure from lawmakers and advocacy groups calling for a complete ban.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian confirmed that the Senate Committee on Ways and Means will lead the inquiry. He stressed the urgency of examining how offshore and local online gambling firms operate. According to him, criminal activity tied to online gambling has grown significantly over the past year.
He pointed to a series of kidnappings, human trafficking cases, and scam centers linked to unregulated online operators. Gatchalian emphasized that public safety must come first. He believes the government can no longer ignore the risks posed by illegal and poorly monitored gambling activities.
Previously, the senator had urged the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to review its licensing rules. He raised concerns over its ability to regulate offshore gambling operators, especially Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
Gatchalian claimed POGOs have strained the justice system, overwhelmed law enforcement, and hurt the country’s image abroad. He also warned that the social costs of online gambling outweigh the revenues it generates.
In response, PAGCOR defended its role. It argued that it imposes strict rules and continues to monitor licensees closely. The agency said it already canceled licenses of firms involved in criminal activities.
Despite this, Gatchalian insisted the current system lacks safeguards. He said regulators must either improve oversight or completely halt online gambling operations. Meanwhile, Senate President Francis Escudero backed the call for an investigation. He agreed the industry must undergo deeper scrutiny.
The upcoming probe aims to determine whether online gambling should continue under tighter rules—or be shut down entirely. Senate hearings are expected to begin later this August.
