The licensed online gambling operators in the Philippines have called for tighter regulations instead of a total ban. According to them, a ban will not stop Filipinos from trying to play, but will only push them into the black market where there is no law and protection.
Operators insist that they have strict safety features such as multi-factor authentication, age verification of 21 and above, and time supervision for those who may be too addicted. In addition, legal online gambling provides jobs, government revenue, and technological advancement. In 2024, PAGCOR's license fees reached P54 billion, they said.
Operators say the real enemy is illegal operators who do not follow the law. They are not opposed to stricter regulations, but are open to complying with them. They are calling for faster closure of illegal sites, clearer policies on responsible gaming, and broader public education about safe online gaming.
