The gambling industry in the Philippines is going through a rather big transition.But the latest seems to be a complete setback, with one senator calling for a complete ban on all forms of online gambling.
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva believes there is no room for online gambling in the country and has introduced an "anti-online gambling law" that would curtail activity in general and penalize its participants. .
Penalties of up to six months in prison and a fine of up to PHP6 (US$50,000) are being considered. Villanueva believes this will stop addiction and save lives.
Online gambling considered immoral
Villanueva argues that online gambling is immoral and leads to laziness.He accuses Filipino citizens of "relying on a game of chance" instead of working.
There is no doubt that the gambling industry in the Philippines is volatile.However, this does not necessarily mean that things are out of control.
Recently, there has been speculation that PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation), which regulates gambling and operates casinos in the country, should change its role.It could split with the introduction of an exclusive gaming-only regulator.
In addition, there are serious concerns about Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).Although not as common as it once was, illegal activity related to this sector is on the rise.
PAGCOR closed two POGOs over the weekend and rescued 2 foreigners at the same time.This is the latest in a string of crimes involving 140 POGO-related kidnappings.Last year there were 15.
Villanueva's campaign includes a ban on online gambling and betting through the Internet, as well as a ban on "any form of online gambling activity."He already has the support of several lawmakers, including Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III.
Other politicians may soon join the movement.Senator Grace Paul called for POGO, and Senator Ronald de la Rosa is preparing a dossier on POGO's activities.Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri is on the lookout to comment, awaiting the results of the investigation.
Say no to POGO
The online gambling industry as a whole cannot be blamed for the actions of a few criminals.But making online gambling illegal is seen by some as an extreme solution.Studies show that legalizing gambling increases tax revenue and allows governments to better protect consumers.
The heart of the Philippines' problem is POGO, which was once a thriving market in the Philippines.However, the few remaining POGOs are now losing their viability.
China tried to pressure the Philippines to ban POGOs, but officials turned a deaf ear, given the Philippine dollar (US$71 million) revenue generated by POGOs cannot be ignored.
However, when the Philippines tried to extort more money from POGOs, the operators recoiled and fled.As a result, approximately 13 billion Philippine dollars (US$6500 million) that POGO did not pay was not paid to the Philippines.
The Philippines is expected to crack down more severely now that online game operators are using the same modus operandi as Cambodia. PAGCOR, in partnership with law enforcement agencies, is embarking on a thoroughgoing effort to dismantle the illegal business. If Villanueva's bill becomes law, it looks like there's a lot more to do.
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