The Philippine government is currently reviewing the broader implications of a potential total ban on all forms of online gambling, following increasing calls for such a measure due to numerous cases of Filipinos facing financial ruin from “gambling addiction,” according to Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
In a media interview, Bersamin was asked whether President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. would announce a total ban on online gambling during his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) later this month, similar to last year’s announcement when he banned Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).
Bersamin confirmed, “Well, the policy remains the same… the President is very strong about POGOs; banned na ‘yan (POGOs are already banned).” He clarified that while the ban on POGOs is in effect, other forms of online gaming that are not associated with scams or online fraud are still under consideration.
“We are still looking into it because we have to see all the ramifications that gaming of that method may be allowed to operate,” Bersamin added.
In preparation for the upcoming SONA, Bersamin noted that President Marcos has taken a “hands-on” approach in crafting his annual report to the people.
“The President has been involved very personally in the preparation of the SONA because that is the report to the people,” he stated. “Alam niyo si Presidente, masyadong malakas ang focus niyan sa mga ganitong bagay (You know the President is very focused on these things) because he really loves to communicate to the people the work that he has been doing, that the Cabinet has been doing, that the entire government has been doing.”
President Marcos is scheduled to deliver his fourth SONA on July 28 at the Batasan Pambansa.