A local advocacy group is urging the Philippine government to strengthen, rather than ban, regulations on electronic gambling or e-gambling, citing concerns that a prohibition could drive the industry underground.

CitizenWatch Philippines stressed the need for clearer and more stringent policies to protect the public, particularly the youth, from the potential dangers of online gambling.

Orlando Oxales, lead convenor of CitizenWatch, acknowledged the negative impacts of e-gambling, including mental health issues, addiction and financial difficulties. However, he argued that a complete ban would be counterproductive.

"Calls for a total ban on online gaming are understandable given the rising public concern," Oxales said in a statement. "But banning isn’t the answer. It creates more problems than it solves."

He explained that a blanket ban could lead to the proliferation of unregulated, illegal operations, increasing the risk of exploitation for players.

Instead, Oxales recommended more rigorous licensing procedures, robust age verification and effective consumer protection mechanisms.

"What we need is stricter, smarter regulation — clear rules, modern tools, and responsible enforcement that protect our people while preserving public benefit," he added.

Oxales also highlighted the importance of leveraging technology, including artificial intelligence, to prevent minors from accessing gambling platforms.

He stressed the need for operational transparency among operators and stronger cybersecurity measures to combat fraud and misuse of player data.

"Let’s be clear: Abuse must be stopped. But prohibition is a blunt tool. Precision regulation is more effective — and more sustainable," he said.

The e-gambling industry reportedly generated approximately P50 billion in revenue last year, with funds allocated to national programs such as universal healthcare, sports development and drug rehabilitation.

Oxales estimated that a total ban could result in revenue losses of up to P100 billion this year.

CitizenWatch is urging government agencies, including the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Ad Standards Council, along with lawmakers, to develop a comprehensive policy framework addressing the industry's growth while safeguarding public welfare.

FinTech Alliance Philippines, representing major e-wallet companies, has also expressed support for stricter regulations, a stance echoed by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who previously filed a bill aimed at tightening e-gambling regulations to protect Filipino players.

Furthermore, 14 online gaming operators have voiced opposition to a proposed ban, advocating instead for stronger industry regulation. 

These operators include World Platinum Technologies Inc., AB Leisure Exponent Inc., Total Gamezone Xtreme Inc., Gamemaster Integrated Inc., Lucky Taya Gaming Corp., Stotsenberg Leisure Park & Hotel Corp., Igo Digital High Technology Inc., Megabet Corp., Gavin Ventures Inc., Gotech Entertainment Inc., Meta Interactive Software Solutions Inc., Nextstage Entertainment Inc., Webzoid System Solutions Corp. and Trojan Wells Entertainment Corp.