Philippines President's Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Executive Director Gilberto Cruz publicly stated in Manila that he firmly supports the government's total ban on online gambling, emphasizing that this menace has "destroyed countless families."
Cruz made these remarks at a forum held by the City Hall Reporters Association. He pointed out that online gambling has become an increasingly serious social issue in the Philippines, especially among families of overseas workers. "With just a mobile phone, one can gamble anytime, anywhere. Many wives and children have told me that their husbands or parents are addicted to it, leading to family breakdowns and the disintegration of parent-child relationships."
He emphasized that the harm of online gambling goes beyond economic losses, deeply undermining family structures and social relationships, becoming a significant hidden danger affecting people's psychology and social stability.
Cruz promised that once the government decides to completely ban gambling, PAOCC will fully cooperate with law enforcement actions, provide intelligence support, and assist in investigations. He also noted that most illegal platforms are jointly operated by locals and foreigners, with secretive organizations, complex methods, and often involving cross-border illegal activities, posing challenges to law enforcement.
Finally, Cruz called for a "zero tolerance" attitude towards online gambling in society, recognizing its long-term dangers.
