MANILA — The government is still reviewing the broader implications of banning all forms of online gambling, amid increasing calls to impose a total ban due to numerous cases of Filipinos falling into financial ruin because of gambling addiction, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said.

Bersamin, in a media interview, was asked whether President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will announce a total ban on online gambling in his upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA), similar to last year when he banned Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).

“Well, the policy remains the same… the President is very firm about POGOs—they are already banned,” Bersamin said.

He clarified that while the ban on POGOs stands, other forms of online gaming not linked to scams or fraud are still under review.

“We are still looking into it because we have to consider all the potential consequences before allowing such gaming operations,” Bersamin added.

SONA preparations

Meanwhile, Bersamin said the President has taken a hands-on approach in preparing his annual report to the nation.

“The President has been personally involved in drafting the SONA because it is his report to the people,” he said.

“The President is highly focused on these matters because he truly wants to communicate the work he, the Cabinet, and the entire government have been doing.”

Marcos will deliver his fourth SONA on July 28 at Batasan Pambansa.

State of the Nation Address (SONA)

The **State of the Nation Address (SONA)** is an annual speech delivered by the President of the Philippines to Congress, outlining the government’s achievements, priorities, and legislative agenda. Modeled after the U.S. State of the Union, it is mandated by the 1987 Philippine Constitution and serves as a key political event, reflecting the country’s current state and future direction. The tradition dates back to the Commonwealth era in the 1930s, evolving into a highly anticipated national address.

Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs)

Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are licensed online gambling companies that cater primarily to foreign customers, particularly from China, where gambling is restricted. Established under Philippine law, POGOs operate under government regulation but have faced controversy over issues like tax evasion, illegal workers, and links to crime. While they have contributed to the economy, concerns over social and security risks have led to calls for stricter oversight or even a ban.

Batasan Pambansa

The **Batasan Pambansa** (National Legislature) is the former seat of the Philippine Congress, located in Quezon City, Metro Manila. Built in 1978 under the Marcos administration, it served as the legislative building until 1986 and later housed the House of Representatives. Today, it is part of the **Batasang Pambansa Complex**, a key political and historical site in the Philippines.