Bong Go pushes for total ban on online gambling, warns of deep social impact

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has joined the renewed push in the Senate to shut down online gambling platforms, saying the growing addiction is silently draining the pockets of ordinary Filipinos who can least afford the losses.

Speaking to reporters on 9 July, Go made clear he is ready to either file his own measure or back other proposals that seek to outlaw online gambling across the country.

“In online gambling, I agree with my colleagues on the possibility of banning online gambling. I intend to file my own bill or co-author similar measures,” he said, echoing the frustration of lawmakers alarmed by the way gambling sites have penetrated Filipino households.

He did not mince words on what he sees as the heavy price paid by families who fall prey to online betting.

“The social cost is already too big and deep,” Go said.

He described how digital gambling easily tempts people who barely have enough for daily needs.

“Some drivers, instead of using their money to buy milk, diapers, food or school allowance for their children, spend it on online gambling. It is too easy to play. Some think they are just texting, but they are already gambling. That happens a lot,” he added.

Go’s position strengthens the growing bloc in Congress that wants tougher action to curb gambling addiction. At least one bill proposes to compel internet service providers, mobile apps and payment channels to block gambling sites entirely.

While the online gaming industry has often been defended as a source of revenue, Go argues its hidden damage outweighs any economic gain. He noted the country’s internet landscape makes regulating gambling sites next to impossible, putting children and low-income earners at risk.

“It is very hard to regulate because of the wide internet access we have now. So it is really difficult to regulate. One way to protect our youth from bad habits is to keep them away from online gambling. It is like an addiction when you get hooked,” he said.

Go, who chairs the Senate Committees on Sports and on Youth, said gambling runs counter to his efforts to guide young Filipinos toward sports and fitness instead of vices.

“This is wrong. This is very wrong. Let us protect our youth. Not just our youth, we must protect all Filipinos from getting trapped in gambling,” he stressed.

“As chairman of the Committees on Sports and Youth, I encourage the youth to get into sports and stay away from drugs so we stay healthy and fit,” he added.

This is not the first time Go has supported moves to curb gambling operations. He reminded reporters he had already helped push Senate Bill No. 2868 which targets Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators or POGOs. That bill now awaits the President’s signature.

“I also co-authored the bill banning POGOs, this Senate Bill No. 2868 which was passed in the Senate and the House of Representatives. It is up to the President if he will sign this measure,” he said. “I hope this will also put an end to online gambling.”

For Go, gambling is not just about losing money but about draining hope from families already burdened by rising living costs.

“This is dangerous, especially for our poor countrymen who become victims. Use the money for food instead. It is hard these days,” he said.

Pressed if he would push for a full ban, Go did not hesitate: “Yes. Though you know it will still pass through the Senate and the Congress, even if I am only one vote, my personal opinion is this should be stopped.”

He ended with a request to both lawmakers and the public: “If our poor countrymen become victims, if money for food or school allowance ends up in gambling, I hope that does not happen. I really hope that does not happen.”