Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday proposed a measure that would impose tighter regulations on online gambling platforms amid the growing prevalence in the country.
Under the proposed Senate Bill No. 387, or the “Regulating Reaccess Ability of Online Gambling” Act, only individuals aged 21 and above would be permitted to access online gambling platforms.
In an exclusive interview with RH Raymund Dadpaas, Hontiveros emphasized that the measure avoids a total ban to prevent pushing online gambling activities underground, which, she argued, would make them harder to monitor and control.
“Ebidensya batay sa karanasan ng iba’t ibang bansa rin sa kanilang kasaysayan, mas effective pa rin ang strict regulation dahil kumbaga nasa liwanag ng batas kitang-kita ng mga law-enforcement authorities para pwede nilang ipatupad ‘yung batas,” she said.
“Ang madalas kung hindi man lagi nangyayari sa total ban nag-a-under ground lang ‘yung mga undesirable economic activities mas mahirap silang i-regulate, mas mahirap silang sugpuin kapag nangyayari ‘yung mga pang-aabuso," Hontiveros added.
Operators would be mandated to implement strict identity verification and authentication procedures, in line with Know Your Customer (KYC) standards.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) would be tasked with issuing a standardized age verification system and conducting regular audits. Online gambling companies found violating these rules could face suspension or revocation of their licenses to operate.
Online bets would only be allowed through over-the-counter transactions, online banking, or credit card payments. All of which may be scrutinized by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to prevent illicit activities.
Furthermore, linking e-wallets to online gambling applications would be strictly prohibited. The proposed bill would also enforce a total ban on advertising for all online gambling companies.
Individuals or companies found violating any of these regulations could face imprisonment of six to eight years and fines of up to P10 million.
