Some Philippine lawmakers are pushing for tighter regulations on the integration of e-wallets with online gambling platforms. They express concerns over how easy access is fueling a growing addiction crisis among Filipinos. Bukidnon 2nd District Representative Jonathan Keith Flores is leading efforts to file a bill in the upcoming 20th Congress that would limit the use of digital wallets in gambling apps.

In a recent interview, Flores warned that the seamless integration of e-wallets into online betting platforms is making gambling more convenient and addictive for users.

“I think a lot of people are getting hooked on online gambling. It’s very accessible, especially through e-wallets. Some apps even have built-in links to games that users can load money into instantly,” he said.

Flores highlighted that this ease of access is especially harmful to lower-income Filipinos who use limited funds to gamble, hoping for returns that often never come. He also noted that some e-wallet apps not only support gambling top-ups but also offer loans, which worsen users’ financial vulnerability.

Call for Responsible Fintech Design

While Flores emphasised that he is not against the use of e-wallets in general, he took issue with how some platforms serve as access points for gambling. He suspects that certain e-wallet providers may be profiting from their partnerships with online casinos and gambling apps. 

“The more people load money into these apps, the more revenue e-wallet providers likely earn,” he stated. “They should remove gambling links from their platforms. At the very least, make it harder, not easier, for people to access betting services.” 

Flores is still drafting the bill and researching to determine the appropriate penalties and regulatory agencies that should be involved. He stressed the importance of creating safeguards within fintech apps to prevent further harm to Filipino families.

Impact on Families and Youth

Flores shared that in his district, he has seen how gambling has affected youth and breadwinners. The growing dependency on mobile wallets for gambling is contributing to mounting debt and, in some cases, even theft. “A lot of families are being destroyed by online gambling. If we make betting more accessible, it’s like we’re encouraging addiction,” he said.

Other Lawmakers Demand Stricter Action

Meanwhile, Manila 2nd District Representative Rolando Valeriano is advocating for a stricter regulatory approach. He is urging authorities to revoke any administrative orders currently allowing online gambling and to call on PAGCOR and the Games and Amusements Board to cancel the licenses of online gambling operators. Valeriano urged the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to prohibit the use of e-wallets as transaction tools. He criticized the promotion of betting apps by celebrities and influencers, stating it pushes more Filipinos into debt.