Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero is seeking a nationwide ban on gambling advertisements and sponsorships across television, radio, print, websites, social media and other platforms.
Senate Bill No. 2347 would also prohibit gambling operators from using celebrities and influencers as endorsers, offering bonuses that encourage betting, and placing promotional content in electronic and physical media.
Escudero said the restrictions are intended to make online gambling less accessible, particularly to minors and people vulnerable to addiction.
“Iyan ‘yung logic ng ating proposed legislation, huwag padaliin … Paano ba pahirapan ‘to para hindi basta-basta makapaglaro,” Escudero said during his “Chiz Wiz! Usapang May Laman” podcast on Sunday, Aug. 16.
He said voluntary guidelines adopted by the Ad Standards Council, including the removal of gambling imagery and paraphernalia from advertisements, do not carry the force of law.
“Ang kailangan ng batas ay itong sa advertisement dahil kailangan mong i-regulate dito ‘yung mga private companies,” he said.
The senator described the proposed advertising ban as a first step toward a broader regulatory framework intended to reduce gambling-related harm.
He compared the approach with restrictions imposed on the tobacco industry under Republic Act No. 9211, which banned certain forms of cigarette advertising. Tobacco regulation was later expanded to require graphic health warnings.
Escudero cited gambling advertising restrictions in several countries. Italy prohibits gambling advertising across media and sports sponsorships, while Spain limits broadcast hours and bans welcome bonuses. New Zealand prohibits affiliate marketing for online gambling, while China bars advertising for Internet and real-money gambling.
Recovering compulsive gambler Darren Telan said advertisements could trigger relapses among people trying to stop gambling.
“Kapag kami nakakita ng ads, babalik or trigger sa amin ‘yun,” Telan said.
