Senator Erwin Tulfo, the recently appointed chairman of the Senate Committee on Games and Amusement, has declared his intention to adopt a stringent approach toward online gambling. During a press briefing on Wednesday, he revealed plans to organize a hearing aimed at investigating the increasing societal effects brought about by this issue.

"I am confident that we will take a clear position: a complete rejection of online gambling. At this moment, I stand for a total prohibition on online gaming," Tulfo said.

The senator confirmed that the committee will summon key stakeholders, including the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR), the Department of Finance, officials from the executive branch, as well as representatives from youth groups, parents, educational institutions, and religious organizations. "We want to listen carefully to all viewpoints before proceeding," he added.

Tulfo stressed the necessity for stronger regulatory safeguards, criticizing existing frameworks that allow easy access to gambling platforms, particularly for minors. Highlighting concerns over mobile payment applications, he remarked, "When I open my GCash app, I see gambling options. Imagine if a child in a rural area receives money and is exposed to these games. How do we control that?"

He also condemned a viral video showing a legislator engaging in e-sabong, or online cockfighting, during the opening session of the 20th Congress. Tulfo described the incident as "deeply disappointing" and "disgraceful," emphasizing that lawmakers should remain focused on their responsibilities despite potentially tedious proceedings.

Expressing alarm at the normalization of online gambling in institutions such as banks and schools, Tulfo warned that if regulatory efforts fail, his committee will actively consider implementing an outright ban on online gambling.