Former Commissioner of the Philippine Anti-Corruption Commission, Atty. Nicasio Conti, has strongly called for a total ban on online gambling advertisements, describing internet gambling as a "silent social plague" and urging the government to address its societal dangers.
Conti, who held a significant position during the Arroyo administration and is now the head of an intelligence agency, pointed out that online gambling operates around the clock, targeting economically vulnerable groups. It disguises the risks of addiction under the guise of entertainment and glorifies gambling behavior through extensive advertising, ultimately undermining family and social structures.
He emphasized that current gambling regulations are inadequate to address the "digital gambling challenges" brought about by emerging payment methods such as e-wallets and online banking, and called for gambling to be considered a public interest issue due to its intertwined effects on mental health, poverty, and corruption.
As authorities are currently undertaking a massive crackdown on illegal online gambling platforms, Conti's statements are particularly noteworthy. Data shows that the government has recently blocked over 7000 unlicensed websites, many of which use the "Scatter" slot machine mechanism, enticing users with free spins and bonus multipliers, leading them deeper into addiction.
Conti advocates for multi-departmental legislation to establish defenses against debt traps, manipulative tactics, and excessive advertising. He warns that continuing to indulge such industries will result in social collapse as the price for short-term profits, and calls for immediate reform.
