In a bold and unexpected move, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has declared a decisive ban on all online gambling firms operating within the country. The controversial leader announced the ban during a televised address to the nation, citing concerns over the negative impact of online gambling on society.
The ban will affect all online gambling firms, including those offering casino games, sports betting, and lottery services. President Duterte stressed that the decision was made in the best interest of the Filipino people, as online gambling has been linked to various social problems such as addiction, crime, and corruption.
“I have always been against online gambling, as it brings nothing but harm to our society. It is a vice that preys on the vulnerable and leads to the erosion of our moral values,” Duterte said.
The ban is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy, as the online gambling industry has been a major source of revenue for the Philippine government. According to reports, online gambling firms in the Philippines generated over $140 million in revenue in 2020 alone.
Despite the economic implications, President Duterte remained steadfast in his decision to ban online gambling, stating that the well-being of the Filipino people was his top priority.
“I understand that this decision may have economic repercussions, but the welfare of our people is more important than any financial gain. We must protect our citizens from the harmful effects of online gambling,” Duterte said.
The ban on online gambling firms is set to take effect immediately, with all existing licenses being revoked and operations being shut down. The Philippine government will also work to crack down on illegal online gambling activities, with law enforcement agencies instructed to take swift and decisive action against violators.
While the ban has received mixed reactions from the public, with some supporting the move as a step towards combating social issues, others have expressed concerns over the loss of jobs and revenue that the ban will bring.
As the Philippines grapples with the implications of this ban, one thing is clear – President Duterte’s decision to ban all online gambling firms has sparked a heated debate and will have far-reaching consequences for the country’s economy and society.
