Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero has filed a bill seeking to impose a nationwide ban on gambling-related advertisements and sponsorships to protect minors and other vulnerable sectors from aggressive promotions.
Under Senate Bill No. 2347, all gambling-related advertisements across television, radio, print, online, and social media platforms would be prohibited. The proposed measure also covers celebrity endorsements, influencer campaigns, and other promotional activities, while limiting gambling advisories to authorized consumer communications.
Escudero said the proposal mirrors the restrictions imposed on the tobacco industry under Republic Act No. 9211, which prohibits tobacco advertisements and sponsorships across various media platforms.
"It’s about time that we regulate the gambling industry the same way we regulated tobacco two decades ago," the senator said.
"My bill shall institutionalize this effort by placing the restrictions under a national legal framework, ensuring uniform enforcement and preventing gaps in regulation," he added.
According to the senator, the measure aims to foster a more responsible gaming environment by protecting minors and other vulnerable individuals, promoting informed consumer choice, and advancing the public interest.
The bill also requires the implementation of education and awareness campaigns to encourage responsible gambling and inform the public about available mental health support and consumer protection programs.
Government agencies will be tasked to conduct sustained information drives highlighting the risks of compulsive gambling and encouraging informed decision-making among players.
Violators of the proposed advertising ban will face escalating penalties. A first offense carries a fine of up to P200,000 or imprisonment of up to one year, or both. A second offense is punishable by a fine of up to P300,000 or imprisonment of up to two years, or both. For a third offense, violators may be fined up to P500,000 or imprisoned for up to three years, in addition to the revocation of their business permits or licenses.
