A newly proposed bill in the Philippine House of Representatives seeks to restrict youth access to online gambling, amid rising concerns over addiction among young Filipinos.
Known as the Kontra E-Sugal Bill (House Bill No. 1351) and introduced by the Anakbayan party-list, the legislation would establish a national framework to limit gambling platform access to individuals aged 21 and above. Users would need to provide valid government-issued ID to register.
The bill also aims to ban gambling-related promotions on e-wallets and “super apps,” and prohibit the advertisement of online gambling in public spaces.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) would be responsible for setting daily, weekly, and monthly loss limits. Players exceeding these limits would face automatic account suspension.
Additionally, the bill proposes a 10% tax on online gambling, with revenue directed toward addiction treatment, public education, and enforcement programs. A national self-exclusion list, managed by PAGCOR, would allow individuals to voluntarily opt out of gambling platforms. The initiative highlights the importance of a coordinated, evidence-based strategy to minimize gambling-related harm.
In parallel, House Bill 721 targets online betting promotions via e-wallets. In the Senate, Pia and Alan Peter Cayetano have introduced a similar measure, including operator penalties and the creation of an Online Gambling Control Task Force under the Office of the President.
PAGCOR has expressed its support for future regulations and reaffirmed its commitment to fighting illegal online gambling.
