Philippine lawmakers target e-wallet access to gambling apps amid growing addiction concerns

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Philippine lawmakers are set to introduce a bill that would control how digital wallets connect users to igaming sites.

Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores told DZMM that he was concerned about how easily users can access e-wallets when gambling online, fearing that it could lead to addiction.

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“E-wallets should not serve as easy gateways to gambling apps. Their platforms are being used, whether they admit it or not, as channels of addiction,” Flores said.

The legislator also highlighted that some e-wallet apps allow quick top-ups, include in-app links to gambling games, and even offer loan options. He stressed that this easy model increases the risk for low-income earners, which leads to losing their hard-earned money to gambling in the greed of uncertain returns.

His suggested law would eliminate embedded gambling links and introduce precautions to deter impulsive betting behavior. Flores explained that his approach is not a ban.

“Make it harder, not easier,” he urged fintech providers.

Rep. Rolando Valeriano added that agencies should cancel licenses of gambling operators and block e-wallets from being used as gambling tools.

Lawmakers cautioned that digital convenience should not come at the cost of Filipino lives.

In a bid to curb online gambling, Filipino lawmakers enacted the Anti-Pogo Act of 2025 this month, enforcing stricter measures on the existing POGO ban.

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2025/06/03: Ohio Governor warns of rising addiction amid moves to legalize igaming 2025/06/16: Japan asks other countries to block casino access 2025/05/20: PAGCOR chairman calls for collaboration to fight gambling addiction 2025/05/26: The Supreme Court of India hears plea to ban all online sports betting apps