Lawmaker Warns of Unintended Consequences if Online Gambling Is Banned

The Philippines has been through all the stages of gambling regulation. Opposing proposals are flying around with the country not yet agreed on a single best course of action. However, more pragmatic lawmakers have called for a moderate approach rather than some of the extreme proposals introduced over the past weeks.

Gambling Will Exist with or without a Ban

One of the popular talking points is a complete ban on online gambling, something that Rep. Joseph Bernos has opposed outright, arguing that there was historic evidence to suggest that an outright ban on gambling does it so empower the black market that would not slow down no matter what.

“History has shown us that banning a popular but controversial activity doesn’t make it disappear; it only drives it into the shadows, where there is no oversight, no accountability, and greater danger for our people,” Bernos added.

He called on fellow lawmakers and government officials to be realistic and acknowledge the simple truth that adults enjoy online games of chance and that those games will continue to exist and be played even if the country were to try and outlaw them.

“The demand for online games of chance exists, especially among adults. If we ban legitimate platforms, we remove the ability of the government to monitor and control gambling activity – and we lose potential revenue. Worse, we empower illegal syndicates who operate beyond our legal reach,” he explained.

Let’s Be Realistic, Urges Lawmaker

According to Bernos, the chief issue is not in the existence of regulated gambling platforms, but in their poor oversight, which can be improved dramatically to ensure that consumers are safe and that the black-market is kept at bay.

The lawmaker believes that the gambling sector is responsible for generating jobs, supporting the tech infrastructure, and boosting the national income in the form of tax revenue.  

Other, more pragmatic suggestions have mentioned limited advertising, parts of which are already being enforced. Specific deposit and betting limits have also been floated as an idea that could help shield consumers from gambling-related harm.