A proposed total ban on gambling advertising in the Philippines will affect only licensed operators while leaving illegal offshore platforms beyond reach, local lawyers warned in comments on Senate Bill 2347, filed 26 July.
Russell Stanley Geronimo, founder of Geronimo Law, said national legislation cannot overcome territorial limits: authorities will be unable to pursue operators outside the country. 'A blanket ban will silence licensed players while illegal platforms continue promotion via SMS, direct messages and affiliates,' Geronimo said.
Senator Francis 'Chiz' Escudero filed SB2347, which bans gambling advertising and sponsorship across TV, radio, print, outdoor, online and social media. The bill also blocks endorsement by celebrities and influencers. An alternative bill in the lower house, HB10982, targets only online gambling and exempts land-based casinos.
Geronimo explained that PAGCOR directives bind only licensees and accredited providers. The Advertising Standards Council is a private self-regulatory body whose rules apply only to members. Offshore platforms placing ads through programmatic networks, social media or SMS remain out of reach.
Lawyer Tonet Quiogue, writing for Arden Consult, warned the ban may push players back to illegal offshore sites. She cited PAGCOR data and private estimates showing growth in the licensed online gambling share since 2022, and pointed to European markets where advertising restrictions coincided with rising concern over the illegal segment.
Geronimo added that the bill should separate commercial advertising from public-interest information, including responsible gaming campaigns. Primary liability should rest with operators and agencies, not publishers acting in good faith.
