Online gambling apps can no longer be accessed through popular e-wallets after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) ordered their immediate removal starting Saturday, 8 p.m., in a move aimed at shielding Filipinos from gambling-related harm.
According to a report by ABS-CBN News, the BSP directive required payment providers to cut off all in-app links to gambling sites within 48 hours. Industry giants GCash and Maya swiftly complied, disabling access through their GLife and Games features.
Stories of broken families and lost trust
For some, the crackdown comes as long-awaited relief. “Romeo,” 23, shared how online betting tore his marriage apart in 2024.
“Iniwan ko kasi asawa ko dahil anlakas magsugal eh… dun ko na siya nahuli na yung sinasahod ko, pinangsusugal niya lang,” he said.
Romeo admitted that gambling addiction pushed his family to breaking point, and he welcomed the BSP’s action.
“Mas maraming nalululong kumpara sa kumikita. Andyan na yung mga sanglaan, andyan na yung mga nakawan para ipang-sugal,” he added, pointing to how debt and crime often follow unchecked gambling habits.
Concern for the youth
Others like Allan Gipit, 46, still engage in e-games but believe that stricter controls are necessary to prevent addiction among younger Filipinos.
“Pagdating po kasi sa e-wallet mas madali pong naa-access yung online game… kaya very easy to use talaga para sa mga bata,” Gipit explained.
He admitted earning from online gaming but still supports a nationwide ban, saying:
“Sang-ayon ako dahil merong mga involved dyan na nalululong.”
Authorities push for broader action
The order is part of a larger campaign by regulators to address the growing public health risks linked to e-gambling. The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has welcomed the move, calling it an important step to reduce addiction and crime, while lawmakers such as Senator Erwin Tulfo have called on other online platforms to cooperate in restricting access to gambling sites.
