Senator Alan Peter Cayetano appealed to the government on Tuesday to focus on growing the economy to boost public funds instead of relying on gambling as a revenue source.
Cayetano made this statement in response to recent proposals in the House of Representatives to revive and legalize e-sabong as an alternative revenue stream following the ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) imposed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Cayetano emphasized the need to invest in agriculture, promote tourism, and stimulate industrial growth to usher in long-term financial growth.
He argued that, unlike gambling, these sectors would provide long-term financial benefits for the country and positively contribute to the well-being of Filipinos.
A long-time critic of all forms of gambling, Cayetano has consistently warned about the negative consequences of online sabong which far outweigh any financial gain it might provide.
He noted that e-sabong’s widespread accessibility increases the risk of addiction, financial ruin, and crime, particularly among the youth.
“Ano ba y’ung tinatanim natin sa next generation? Wala pa akong nakitang bansa na talagang umunlad dahil sa online gaming,” he said at a press conference on July 18, 2024.
Two years ago, Cayetano predicted the possible resurgence of e-sabong operations following their initial ban.
“Sa totoo lang, magpapalamig lang ‘yan. Tapos sa Senado naman pupunta para sa franchise, o sa next administration,” he had said at the time.
E-sabong was previously banned under President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration after the disappearance of more than 30 individuals allegedly involved in online cockfighting.
Cayetano said if the people continue to apply pressure against e-sabong and push for more investments and jobs, “God willing po hindi na ito makakabalik,” he said.