Sen. Francis "Chiz" Escudero is advocating stricter regulation of gambling promotions through a proposed measure that would prohibit gambling-related advertisements and sponsorships across the country, aiming to promote responsible gaming and provide greater protection for Filipino families, especially minors and other vulnerable groups.
Filed on July 26, Senate Bill No. 2347, or the Gambling Advertising Prohibition Act, seeks to prohibit gambling advertisements on television, radio, print, online, and social media platforms, while also banning celebrity endorsements and influencer campaigns tied to gambling products and services.
The senator noted that although the gambling industry generates significant revenues, it is equally important to address concerns related to gambling addiction, financial hardship, irresponsible gaming behavior, and the exposure of young people to gambling promotions.
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Bill Seeks Tobacco-Style Restrictions on Gambling Promotions
In the explanatory note of the proposed measure, Escudero stressed the importance of pairing the advertising ban with responsible gaming information and stronger enforcement mechanisms.
“The imposition of such proscription on gambling advertisements likewise requires the inclusion of responsible gaming advisories in authorized consumer communications, and the imposition of appropriate administrative and criminal penalties for violations thereof if only to ensure its effective implementation,” Escudero said in the bill's explanatory note.
The proposal takes inspiration from Republic Act No. 9211, or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003, which regulates tobacco product labeling and prohibits tobacco advertising and sponsorships. Escudero argued that gambling promotions should likewise be subject to stricter regulation because of their potential impact on young people.
He also stated, “By banning gambling-related consumer communications, similar to the provisions of Republic Act No. 9211, otherwise known as the “Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003,” this measure seeks to foster a more responsible gaming environment that protects minor and similarly vulnerable persons, promotes informed consumer choice, and advances public interest.”
The bill would prohibit celebrity and influencer endorsements, gambling sponsorships in sports, concerts and cultural events, product placements, promotional giveaways, and branded merchandise that could appeal to individuals below 21 years old.
If enacted, gambling advertisements would only be allowed inside gambling establishments and through operators' official websites or mobile applications, subject to age-verification measures restricting access to persons 21 years old and above.
Transition Period and Penalties Proposed
The measure provides a one-year transition period after the law takes effect, giving gambling operators, advertisers, broadcasters, and online platforms time to phase out prohibited advertisements and promotional materials.
During that transition period, the bill specifies that “no new advertising or sponsorship agreement or arrangement shall be entered into except those necessary to wind down existing contractual obligations, subject to such rules as may be prescribed by the implementing agency.”
Escudero also said the proposal aims to transform the Ad Standards Council's voluntary restrictions into a nationwide policy that addresses the growing reach and sophistication of gambling advertisements. While recognizing the industry's PHP396.13 billion gross gaming revenues in 2025, he emphasized that economic gains should be balanced with safeguards against excessive and irresponsible gambling.
The proposed legislation also directs the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and other government agencies to conduct sustained public education campaigns on gambling addiction, responsible gaming practices, available counseling services, treatment options, and other support interventions. The private sector is likewise encouraged to participate in these awareness efforts.
Violators of the proposed advertising ban could face penalties ranging from a fine of up to P200,000 or imprisonment of not more than a year, or both, for the first offense; a fine of up to P300,000 or imprisonment of not more than two years, or both, for the second offense; and a fine of up to P500,000 or imprisonment of not more than three years, along with the revocation of business permits and licenses, for the third offense.
The bill further provides, “If the offender is a juridical person, the penalty shall be imposed upon the responsible officers, as the case may be, who participated in, or by their gross negligence, allowed the commission of the violation. If the offender is an alien, he or she shall, in addition to the penalties herein prescribed, be deported without further proceedings after serving the penalties prescribed.”
If approved, the measure could strengthen consumer protection by limiting public exposure to gambling advertisements while encouraging more responsible gaming practices. For Filipino families, particularly parents and young people, the proposal seeks to reduce the influence of aggressive gambling promotions and support a healthier, more informed environment as the country continues to balance economic activity with public welfare.
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