In a press briefing held today, August 1, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro announced that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will first conduct a thorough study on the potential banning of online gambling in the country.
This decision comes in response to requests from lawmakers and the public for the President to address the issue, especially after his speech during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) did not cover it.
The Palace defended Marcos, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive evaluation before making any decisions.
“Huwag tayo masyadong magpadalos-dalos. Minsan kasi, nakikita natin ano ba 'yung isinisigaw ng taong bayan, pero yung iba hindi pa po inaaral ng mabuti kung ano yung magiging epekto nito sa bayan,” she said.
Castro also noted that the revenue generated from regulated online gambling establishments plays a crucial role in supporting public assistance initiatives.
“Kapag nga tinanggal natin agad-agad ang online gambling at maapektuhan naman iyong ibang mga lisensiyado, makakaapekto ba ito sa tulong sa bayan, sa tulong sa mga estudyante, sa tulong sa mga Pilipino?” Castro emphasized.
Furthermore, she highlighted that the President is carefully weighing the pros and cons of online gambling before reaching a decision on this significant matter.
