The Cebu City Council approved a resolution Wednesday calling for a total ban on gambling advertisements and promotions within the city, citing concerns over addiction and the exposure of minors to predatory marketing.
The measure, sponsored by North District City Councilor Joel Garganera, seeks to prohibit gambling-related content across all platforms. The proposed ban covers physical billboards, posters, LED screens, printed materials, and digital advertisements, as well as sponsored events and promotional activities conducted by gambling operators.
“Gambling advertisements, both physical and digital, have been found to significantly contribute to gambling addiction, financial hardship, and other social issues that affect families and communities,” Garganera said during the council’s regular session.
The resolution points to a surge in online gambling fueled by social media and aggressive digital campaigns.