Padilla files bill punishing online gambling promoters

In Senate Bill No. 2602 filed earlier this week, Robin Padilla said he “has been apprised of the availability of online user-generated content relating to gambling,” including materials that specifically demonstrate, promote, and provide instructions on betting. (FILE PHOTO)

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Robin Padilla wants any person who publishes and promotes gambling online jailed or penalized for a fine of up to P500,000.

In his Senate Bill No. 2602 filed earlier this week, Padilla said he “has been apprised of the availability of online user-generated content relating to gambling,” including materials that specifically demonstrate, promote, and provide instructions on betting.

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“In this regard, this representation proposes the prohibition of online publication of materials that instruct or demonstrate gambling, commentaries and advertisements that promote awareness of gambling activities,” said Padilla in his measure.

“This bill is deemed instrumental to lessen, if not eliminate, the exposure and impact of gambling to the general public, especially the youth, that brings lasting damage to individuals, families, and even communities,” he added.

Under his bill, the Padilla said it should be unlawful for any person, natural or juridical, to do the following:

• Instruct or demonstrate gambling; or distribute information online
• To cause the publishing of commentaries on gambling activities through online platforms
• To advertise or publicize gambling activities online to an individual, group, or the general public

Padilla said any person who publishes online gambling content shall be punished with a penalty of imprisonment ranging from six months to one year or a fine not less than P300,000 but not more than P500,000.

“The maximum penalty of three years imprisonment and the fine of P500,000 shall likewise be imposed if the offender has linked the prohibited content to an online gambling site or has received any form of remuneration or commissions for publishing the prohibited content,” he said.

“If the offender is a juridical person, the maximum penalty of three years imprisonment and a fine of P500,000 shall be imposed upon the President, director/s manager, or managing partner/sm and,or responsible officer/s thereof,” Padilla added.

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If signed into law, the Department of Justice will be mandated to issue a “disabling order” to restrict or block access to online content promoting gambling, with notice to the Department of Information and Communications Technology and National Telecommunications Commission to monitor compliance.

“Service providers must comply with the disabling orders within 48 hours of the issuance of the orders,” the senator added.