Senator Alan Peter Cayetano reiterated his call to halt all forms of gambling in the country, particularly online gambling, e-sabong, and the controversial operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
“Ako yung siguro pinaka-outspoken, even when I was (House) Speaker, against all forms of gambling especially online e-sabong and POGO,” Cayetano said.
“Just like legal gaming forms – parating may unintended consequences ‘yan.”
“That’s why, to this date, the city of Taguig did not allow any POGO operations. It’s because, now, it’s just like legal gaming forms – parating may unintended consequences ‘yan,” the veteran legislator added.
Two years ago, the seasoned lawmaker filed the Anti-Online Gambling Act (Senate Bill No. 63) to prohibit gambling activities on the internet and impose penalties on online wagering and betting.
This bill was discussed during the public hearing by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means recently on improving the country’s regulation of online gambling, alongside a bill filed by Committee chair Senator Win Gatchalian to repeal the law taxing POGOs, ultimately rendering them illegal in the country.
“The negative social impact of POGOs far outweighs any supposed economic benefits.”
In the media interview, Cayetano said his opposition to POGOs is grounded on both economic and moral reasons, arguing that the negative social impact of POGOs far outweighs any supposed economic benefits.
“Of course, ang argument pa rin ng PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) ay ‘yung revenues. Hindi natin kinukwenta kung magkano ba ang ginagastos natin sa peace and order. Magkano ba yung nawawala sa scams o panloloko?” the senator said.
Turning to online gambling in general, he cited growing concerns over its impact on Filipinos and the generations to come.
“Ano ba ‘yung tinatanim natin sa next generation? Wala pa akong country na nakikita [na tumatangkilik] sa mga online gaming na talagang umunlad,” Cayetano concluded.
