August 13, 2025
MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has not closed his doors on the possible banning of online gambling in the country, said the Palace on Tuesday, as he awaits the insights of various stakeholders before making a decision.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said this when asked what the President’s decision on the country’s online gambling policy will be, especially as the government finalizes its national budget for 2026.
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According to Castro, Marcos intends to conduct a consultation with stakeholders first before coming up with a final decision.
“[In the President’s view,] we must study this carefully and not act hastily because we need to hear from all stakeholders and concerned parties regarding this. As he said, the problem is not the playing itself, or gambling per se, or online gaming, but rather the addiction to gambling — and that’s what should be addressed first.,” said Castro in Filipino during a Palace press conference.
“But as the President said, that is only his opinion and he has not yet heard from those he needs to listen to. If, during the said meeting or conference with other stakeholders, it is stated that it should be banned, then the President will do so,” she added.
While Castro said the exact schedule for the consultation has yet to be finalized, among the stakeholders to be invited in the meeting are representatives from the Church.
Several bills concerning the ban of online gambling are currently filed before the Senate — seeking to ban online gambling and its promotion in the country, citing its negative social impacts, especially to minors.