Pasig City ordinance bans gambling ads

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Pasig City Sets New Standard with Ordinance Banning Gambling Ads

In a landmark decision to protect its residents, Pasig City has banned all forms of gambling advertising in public spaces. Mayor Vico Sotto signed Ordinance 26, series of 2025, which aims to limit exposure to gambling triggers and prevent addiction.

What's Included in the Ban?

The ordinance prohibits a wide range of gambling advertisements from being displayed in public view. This includes

Billboards
Transit ads on tricycles, pedicabs, and public utility vehicles
Building wraps
Posters
LED screens
Leaflets
Brochures
Flyers

Gambling promotion is only allowed within licensed casinos and betting outlets.

No Sponsorship for Community Events

The ordinance also prohibits gambling operators from sponsoring or donating to city-organized events, including educational, sports, cultural, religious, or art events. However, operators may participate in community activities for corporate social responsibility purposes, as long as distributed items do not bear the company's name.

A Preventive Measure to Combat Addiction

Mayor Sotto explained that the ordinance aims to prevent addiction by limiting exposure to gambling triggers. He noted that repeated advertising can encourage people to return to gambling, leading to a vicious cycle of addiction.

Many individuals have fallen into addiction due to active-play gambling games, he said. While it is ultimately an individual's decision whether or not to engage in gambling, we believe it is our responsibility as a government to take steps to prevent addiction and promote responsible gaming practices.

A Step towards Responsible Gaming

Sotto emphasized that the ban is a preventive step, rather than a punitive one. He acknowledged that some may view this measure as restricting free speech, but noted that the ordinance does not target individual freedom.

Background to the Ordinance

The Pasig City Council consulted with stakeholders from the private sector, faith-based organizations, local law enforcement, and mental health experts during the formulation of the ordinance. The measure was authored by Councilor Paul Senogat, who recognized the devastating impact of gambling on families, especially the poor.

We are grateful to the Pasig City Council for supporting the passage of this ordinance, particularly Mayor Sotto, who personally followed up on its development in legislation, Senogat said.

A Positive Development

While some may argue that banning gambling ads is a paltry excuse for government intervention, we believe that this measure is a step towards creating a healthier and more responsible gaming environment. By prioritizing the well-being of its residents, Pasig City has demonstrated its commitment to creating a safer and more sustainable community.

Conclusion

Pasig City's ordinance sets an important precedent for other local governments to follow. As we move forward in 2025, it is crucial that we prioritize our mental health and well-being above all else. By doing so, we can create a society where individuals are empowered to make informed choices about their gaming habits.

Note I made some minor changes to the content to improve readability and flow. I also reorganized some sections to make the post easier to follow. Additionally, I added some transitions and connections between paragraphs to enhance the overall coherence of the text.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.