Quezon City Council to tighten regulation of online gambling

The Quezon City Council in the Philippines is currently reviewing a proposal that calls for greater regulation and control of online gambling and bingo games, including those held in carnivals and those for charitable causes.

The Inquirer.net newspaper reports that the proposal – the work of councillors Jesus Manuel Suntay and Godofredo Liban – is still at committee stage and has a way to go yet before being signed into local law by the mayor.

It includes regulations for short or long term permits ranging from three days to three years, and limits games of chance in carnivals to 14 days. Exempted from securing permits are gaming establishments with a capital of at least P200 million as well as community-organised bingo games with prizes not exceeding P20,000.

The measure also covers restrictions regarding proximity to schools and churches, and operating hours.

There is also provision for punitive measures of a P5,000 fine, increasing for a second offense to a 30-day suspension of operation and a P5,000. A third offence will result in the revocation of the fixed term special permit granted to the gaming establishment.

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