The Senate Committee on Games and Amusement is set to lead a public hearing on 14 August to address a series of proposed bills and resolutions aimed at curbing the growing problem of online gambling in the country.

The panel’s chairperson, Senator Erwin Tulfo, raised concerns about the social consequences of unregulated digital betting platforms. He noted that the hearing will focus on weighing the financial benefits of the online gambling industry against its negative impact on Filipino families and youth.

“Sa Thursday, sasalang ang mga bills on online gambling sa Senate Committee on Games and Amusements,” Tulfo said.

“I made a commitment to prioritize these bills kasi lumalala ang problema. It's a crisis na eh. So, talagang kailangan aksyunan na ito, to solve this problem.”

While Tulfo is pushing for a total ban on online gambling, he acknowledged the need to consult with key government agencies, including the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Department of Finance (DOF), to thoroughly evaluate the implications of a full ban on the sector.

“Ang problema natin, we were not ready. Walang regulation kaya walang habas ang pagsasugal ng mga tao,” he noted. “Mga bata, nakakasugal na rin.”

Tulfo likewise emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue, citing cases where individuals wager entire salaries and even personal belongings due to addiction.

“You have to weigh, ‘di ba? Ito ‘yung kita mo pero ito naman social ills, diba? Yung problema na yung mga tao nagiging addict sa sugal,” he said.

“Paano na lamang yun, diba? Ano ang ang importante? Exactly. Importante ba yung kita kaysa dun sa kinabukasan ng mga tao, ng mga kabataan, ng mga magulang na nalulong sa sugal?” Tulfo went on.

The committee is expected to deliberate on four proposed bills, three Senate resolutions, and one privilege speech related to the escalating issues tied to online gambling.