The local government of San Pedro City, Laguna has slammed the lid on the sudden proliferation of online gambling ads, as concerned sectors raised the alarm on their effects on society.
Two executive orders signed by Mayor Art Mercado imposed restrictions on online gambling operations in San Pedro City, such as prohibiting its employees from playing on all gambling platforms and taking down digital online gambling advertisements across the city.
Executive Order No. 13 directed Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) licensees, suppliers, gaming venue operators, and system administrators to remove online gambling advertisements within the city by August 15.
EO 13 also prohibits the approval of any new outdoor advertisements promoting online gambling.
These include billboards, digital signages, vehicle and public transport ads, posters, flyers, and other outdoor media.
Meanwhile, Executive Order No. 14 prohibits all city officials and employees from playing in online casinos and other forms of gambling activities within the city.
“As public servants, it is our duty to set an example of discipline, integrity, and compassion. We cannot build a better community if we tolerate distractions that silently destroy lives,” Mercado said in his Facebook page.
The local chief executive stressed his commitment to prioritize programs with genuine value and purpose, while encouraging the public to turn away from vices that lead nowhere.
“This is not a fight against leisure, but a fight against systems that slowly drag families, young people, and livelihoods into ruin,” Mercado said.
“In San Pedro, we will choose what is right, even when it’s not easy,” he added
Mercado noted that gambling contributes to social harm, and as civil servants, government employees must set an example by protecting the future of the youth and every family from the dangers of gambling.
The city government cited the social harm caused by excessive gambling, particularly its impact on the youth, vulnerable individuals, and families, “which can lead to addiction, financial instability, and other consequences detrimental to community well-being.”
It also saw the need to uphold the integrity of public service and ensure the ethical conduct of government employees, fostering public trust and responsible governance.
(With report from PIA)
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