Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri has denounced online gambling in the Philippines, calling it a “silent epidemic” that is quietly destroying Filipino lives.
At the start of the 20th Congress, Zubiri filed Senate Bill titled the “Anti-Online Gambling Act of 2025,” which seeks to impose a total ban on all forms of online gambling in the country.
Zubiri warned that gambling addiction has evolved, now manifesting in young people secretly betting online at night and losing essential household funds.
The proposed legislation prohibits digital betting platforms, mobile apps, and websites that allow users to place bets using phones, tablets, or computers.
It covers both locally operated and offshore gambling sites that target or serve Filipino users.
The bill also bans digital wallets and payment service providers such as credit cards, GCash, and PayMaya from processing any transactions related to online gambling.
Entities that facilitate betting, promote gambling content, or advertise betting sites—whether through traditional media, social media, or influencer marketing—will be held accountable.
Zubiri criticized the widespread promotion of online casinos, including endorsements by celebrities and viral memes that trivialize gambling losses.
Violators of the proposed law face severe penalties, including a minimum ₱20 million fine and six-month license suspension for the first offense.
A second offense could lead to a ₱50 million fine and a one-year suspension of operations.
A third violation would result in a minimum ₱100 million fine, permanent license revocation, and criminal prosecution of company executives, with penalties of up to six years in prison.