he Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has raised concerns over the potential impact of violent video games on young people and is urging Congress and relevant government agencies to study possible regulatory measures, including a nationwide ban.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla voiced alarm over the possible effects of prolonged exposure to violent online games, arguing that such content could influence the behavior of minors.

“A lot of serious things could happen. Now, having said that, I believe games promoting violence, such as Gorebox, should be permanently banned in the Philippines,” he said.

The renewed call follows public concern over school safety after a shooting in Tacloban City allegedly involving two minors, aged 14 and 15, that left three students dead and several others injured.

The incident has intensified discussions on potential influences and risk factors affecting young people, including exposure to violent digital content.

Remulla said violent video games may influence the behavioral development of the youth.

Desensitized to murder

“[Games] desensitize young people to the elements of death, elements of violence, and elements of murder,” he said.

He emphasized that government intervention should be explored to address the issue.

“Congress should also study the matter of how to stop this,” he said.

The department reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Filipino youth and promoting responsible engagement with digital platforms. 

Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) executive director and Undersecretary Alexander “Aboy” Paraiso confirmed Thursday that they temporarily blocked the gaming application Gorebox.

Paraiso said CICC also reached out to the developers of the US gaming app, F2 Games.

“Yes (Gorebox) is already temporarily blocked,” Paraiso told the Daily Tribune. However, he added that the gaming app has not yet established an office in the Philippines.

“If they (Gorebox) would not cooperate, they will be permanently blocked,” he added.

Paraiso said the CICC is reviewing the mechanics and contents of Gorebox, as one of the students involved in the shooting allegedly played the game extensively.

“As one of the measures we took following the temporary ban on the game, we reached out to the developers and owners of GoreBox to discuss and better understand the safety features built into the game,” Paraiso said.