The Cebu City Government is taking a firm stance on regulating internet access within government facilities by blocking online gambling websites and Virtual Private Network (VPN) applications. On July 22, the Cebu City Council approved a resolution aimed at preventing the misuse of public internet infrastructure and curbing gambling activities during working hours.

Authored by Councilor Nyza “Nice” Archival, the resolution mandates the city’s Management Information and Computer Services office to impose technical restrictions on all identified gambling websites and VPN apps. This measure will impact internal government office systems and public Wi-Fi services, ensuring that government resources are not used for non-work-related activities, such as online gambling.

Blocking VPNs to Prevent Access to Gambling Sites

One of the resolution’s key elements is the blocking of VPN applications, commonly used to bypass digital restrictions. Councilor Archival noted that VPNs enable users to access online gambling sites that are blocked by government filters. By restricting the browser extensions and mobile applications, the city hopes to enforce its new regulations.

Growing concerns about the misuse of government-provided internet services triggered the move. Archival emphasised that VPNs have become a significant tool for individuals to access gambling platforms during work hours, undermining the intended use of government networks.

Rationale Behind the Decision

The decision to block online gambling websites and VPNs stems from a desire to maintain productivity within government offices and protect employees from gambling risks. The Cebu City Government has expressed concerns over the potential adverse effects of gambling, including addiction, financial distress, and moral decay. By preventing access to gambling sites, the city can minimize these risks and enforce the proper use of public internet resources.

The resolution also highlights the negative impact of gambling on employee productivity. It states that access to these sites can result in decreased work performance. The combination of technical controls and disciplinary procedures will ensure that employees adhere to the new regulations and avoid misuse of public resources.

Enforcement and Sanctions for Non-Compliance

For effective enforcement, violations of laid down rules will be met with administrative sanctions under civil service regulations. Government employees accessing gambling websites or using VPNs to bypass the restrictions will be subject to disciplinary actions.

The Cebu City Government’s resolution to block online gambling and VPNs follows similar actions in other regions, such as the United Kingdom. With these measures, Cebu City aims to protect public networks and uphold regulatory compliance.