PASAY CITY—Senators moved to tighten the reins on the digital gambling industry today, Wednesday, February 11, as the Committee on Games and Amusement launched a high-stakes inquiry into the industry’s "borderless" expansion. 

Led by Senator Erwin Tulfo, the hearing exposed alarming gaps in current regulations that allow illegal e-sabong and online betting platforms to flourish despite existing bans. 

Lawmakers grilled representatives from law enforcement and gaming regulators, questioning whether the persistence of these platforms stems from a lack of technological tools or a failure of enforcement will, as millions of Filipinos—including minors—remain vulnerable to predatory gambling apps.

The probe highlighted a deepening national crisis, with senators warning that easy access to betting through social media and e-wallets has turned mobile phones into "pocket casinos." 

Beyond the social toll of addiction and debt, the committee raised red flags over financial integrity, noting that the rapid flow of digital bets creates a high-risk environment for money laundering. 

In response, PAGCOR announced stricter "Know Your Customer" (KYC) protocols, requiring real-time selfies and government IDs to block fake accounts. 

As the Senate weighs a total ban versus more aggressive regulation, the message was clear: the government is no longer treating gambling as simple leisure, but as a direct threat to consumer protection and the safety of the youth.