In a bold move to assert Filipino sovereignty and crack down on illegal online gambling activities, Philippines’ President Rodrigo Duterte has issued an executive order banning China-centric online casinos in the country. This decision comes as the latest in a series of efforts by the Duterte administration to improve relations with China and combat the proliferation of unregulated online gambling operations.
The new executive order, which was signed by Duterte on Monday, prohibits the operation of all online casinos targeting Chinese customers or relying heavily on Chinese nationals for their workforce. The order also directs law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in these illegal gambling activities.
The decision to ban China-centric online casinos comes as a response to growing concerns about the influx of Chinese workers in the Philippine gambling industry and the potential risks that these operations pose to national security. The Philippines has seen a surge in the number of Chinese nationals working in the online gambling sector in recent years, leading to fears of money laundering, human trafficking, and other criminal activities.
President Duterte, known for his no-nonsense approach to law enforcement, has made it a priority to crack down on illegal online gambling in the country. The move to ban China-centric online casinos is seen as a significant step towards regulating the industry and protecting Filipino interests.
In a statement following the issuance of the executive order, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the Filipino people from the negative impact of illegal gambling operations. Panelo also stressed the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relations with China while ensuring the integrity of the Philippine gaming industry.
The decision to ban China-centric online casinos has received mixed reactions from various stakeholders. While some applaud President Duterte for taking a strong stance against illegal gambling, others worry about the potential economic impact of the ban on the Philippine economy. Online casinos targeting Chinese customers have been a significant source of revenue for the country, contributing to the growth of the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Despite these concerns, the Duterte administration remains steadfast in its resolve to enforce the ban on China-centric online casinos and crack down on illegal gambling activities in the Philippines. The government has pledged to work with law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies to ensure strict compliance with the executive order and protect the integrity of the Philippine gaming industry.
As the Philippines continues to navigate the complexities of its relationship with China and address the challenges posed by illegal online gambling, President Duterte’s ban on China-centric online casinos stands as a bold and decisive move in the ongoing battle against illegal gambling activities. Only time will tell how this ban will impact the Philippine gaming industry and the broader economy.
