The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has raised the alarm over the sharp rise in online gambling across the country, calling it a “bagong salot” that is quietly inflicting deep moral and social damage on individuals, families, and communities.
In a statement released Tuesday, July 8, the bishops likened online gambling to a virus that spreads silently but swiftly.
“Kami po ay lubos na nababahala sapagkat tila may bagong salot o virus na sumisira sa mga indibidwal, pamilya at lipunan,” the CBCP said, warning that what many see as harmless entertainment is, in reality, a dangerous addiction—especially among the youth and the poor.
The bishops expressed concern over how digital technology has transformed gambling into a 24/7 temptation, with platforms easily accessible through smartphones, often linked to bank accounts and e-wallets.
They emphasized that these systems are intentionally designed to be “kaakit-akit” (enticing) and highly addictive, particularly for vulnerable sectors.
“Ang mga sugal sa internet ay hindi inosente. Ito ay sinadyang maging kaakit-akit,” they noted.
The CBCP urged the faithful, government leaders, and civil society to confront the spread of online gambling with urgency, encouraging stricter regulation, public education, and pastoral outreach to help those already suffering from gambling-related harm.
“Ito ang mga naririnig natin tungkol sa pagkalulong sa sugal: ‘Ubos palagi ang sahod ko…Nagsinungaling na naman ako sa pamilya ko…’Yung pambili ng gamot at pagkain, naubos sa sugal ni tatay…Nalubog na ang kapatid ko sa utang…Nasira ang pamilya namin dahil sa sugal…Hindi ko na alam kung paano titigil…Hindi ko namalayan na ang mga anak ko ay addicted na pala sa online gambling…Apektado na ang kanyang mental health,” they said.
As shepherds entrusted with the care of people and their dignity, CBCP said they must raise their voices and call attention to this issue.
The bishops called on government leaders to regulate online payment systems and digital platforms to prevent easy access to gambling sites.
They appealed to legislators and local officials to ensure that the public good, particularly the interests of families and youth, is the top priority in any decision involving gambling permits or laws.
They also urged the media and advertisers to stop romanticizing gambling and instead tell the truth about its consequences.
They asked regulatory bodies like PAGCOR to protect citizens, not exploit them for revenue.
Parishes were also encouraged to actively support those struggling with addiction, rather than remain quiet in the face of suffering.
Moreover, CBCP reminded all Filipinos to reflect on the long-term consequences of normalizing gambling. (Ellalyn de Vera-Ruiz)
