TO combat rising addiction and protect vulnerable citizens, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero is pushing for a total nationwide ban on all gambling advertisements across every media platform.
Speaking on his Chiz Wiz! Usapang May Laman podcast, Escudero explained the drive behind Senate Bill No. 2347, a legislative measure designed to place strict, legally binding limits on how gambling platforms promote their services.
The Bicolano lawmaker emphasized that online gaming has grown aggressively accessible to both adults and minors, making firm state intervention necessary.
Escudero highlighted that existing guidelines from bodies like the Ad Standards Council—which advise members to eliminate gambling imagery—rely on voluntary compliance and lack legal enforceability.
Senate Bill 2347 aims to close this gap by legally prohibiting all forms of gambling sponsorships and marketing across television, radio, print, digital channels, and social media.
Drawing a parallel to public health regulations, the Bicolano lawmaker noted that the country’s approach mirrors past action taken against the tobacco industry under Republic Act 9211, which systematically phased out cigarette advertisements.
While global models vary—such as Spain restricting broadcast hours, Italy imposing a comprehensive marketing ban, and China outlawing all real-money gambling ads—full advertising bans remain relatively rare worldwide, making the Philippines’ proposed policy a landmark consumer protection effort.
The bill has gained strong backing from anti-gambling advocates and individuals in recovery.
Content creator Carlo Ople pointed out that modern digital gambling applications are purposefully engineered to maximize user addiction.
Meanwhile, recovering compulsive gambler Darren Telan noted that visible marketing acts as an immediate trigger for individuals working to break the cycle.
Beyond restricting media visibility, SB 2347 also targets promotional tactics by prohibiting celebrity endorsers, banning influencer campaigns, outlawing bonus incentives designed to encourage betting, and restricting physical or electronic promotional placements.
Escudero stated that the bill serves as the primary groundwork for a far more comprehensive regulatory framework governing gambling in the Philippines.
