Philippine Senator Sherwin Gatchalian warned on Monday that online lending apps are exploiting Filipinos already trapped in online gambling addiction, creating a vicious cycle that pushes vulnerable individuals deeper into debt and financial despair, according to the Philippine News Agency.
The senator highlighted how predatory lending practices are worsening the condition of gambling addicts who turn to online lending applications as a last resort to finance their betting habits. These apps offer quick but costly access to funds, which users then employ to continue gambling online before finding themselves forced to borrow again to repay previous loans.
“Addicted to online gambling and now exploited by online lending apps. When will this system that drowns our poor countrymen into further debt finally stop?” Gatchalian said, citing reports of distressed individuals resorting to these lending platforms.
The senator referenced posts and confessions on various online forums showing that online lending apps have become a desperate funding source for individuals seeking money to finance their gambling addiction. He previously filed a resolution seeking a Senate investigation into the unchecked spread of these lending platforms and their alleged abusive debt collection practices, which include harassment, public shaming, and unauthorized access to personal data.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. echoed similar concerns on Sunday, warning of the growing social toll of online gambling. In his latest video blog, the President acknowledged that while digitalization has improved public services, technology is also being exploited for scams, misinformation, and easy access to gambling platforms.
“One of the things digitalization has made easier is gambling. Many families are being destroyed by it, especially when used irresponsibly,” Marcos said. The President emphasized that technology should strengthen Filipino families rather than destroy them.
The administration has been accelerating digital infrastructure development, including public Wi-Fi, fiber internet, and digital education platforms. However, Marcos stressed that technological progress must be accompanied by proper regulation and responsible use.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin previously indicated that the Palace is still reviewing the broader implications of potentially banning all forms of online gambling. The President’s remarks come amid mounting pressure from lawmakers and civil society groups calling for a complete prohibition of online gambling operations.
Gatchalian has urged relevant government agencies to strengthen enforcement of existing regulations against unlicensed and abusive online lending applications that prey on vulnerable populations already struggling with gambling addiction.
