The Cebu City government has taken a decisive step to shield its residents, particularly the youth, from the pervasive influence of gambling by implementing a citywide ban on all forms of gambling advertisements. This landmark policy, driven by concerns over addiction, financial hardship, and the aggressive marketing targeting vulnerable groups, represents one of the most comprehensive local crackdowns on gambling promotion in the country.
Resolution Details and Scope of the Ban
On December 16, 2025, the Cebu City Council approved a resolution principally authored by City Councilor Joel Garganera. The measure prohibits every type of gambling promotion within the city's jurisdiction. The ban is extensive, covering both physical and digital spaces.
The prohibited advertisements include:
- Billboards and posters in public areas
- Promotions on LED screens
- All printed materials
- Online advertisements and social media promotions
- Sponsored events organized by gambling operators
The resolution mandates three key city offices to enforce the prohibition: the Business Process and Licensing Office (BPLO), the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), and the City Legal Office. These agencies are tasked with the monitoring, identification, and removal of all illegal advertisements.
Rationale Behind the Aggressive Move
In the resolution, Councilor Garganera explained the critical need for the ban. He stated that the proliferation of gambling ads has directly contributed to increased gambling addiction and household financial difficulties. A primary concern is the ease of access that online platforms provide, making such content readily available to young people and other susceptible sectors of society.
"The constant visibility of these advertisements normalizes gambling and undermines public welfare protection efforts," Garganera emphasized. The resolution also cited reports on the rise of online gambling activities, which are often promoted through social media and community-based sponsorships. This trend compelled the city government to act in the interest of public good and social order.
National Context and Broader Implications
Cebu City's local action aligns with a broader national initiative to limit public exposure to gambling promotions. In mid-2025, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) ordered the removal of gambling billboards across the nation. That directive aimed specifically to reduce the public's, and especially the youth's, exposure to gambling advertisements.
The city's ban, however, goes further by encompassing digital and event-based promotions, addressing the modern channels through which gambling is marketed. This local legislation sets a precedent for other cities and municipalities to follow, potentially creating a patchwork of stricter regulations that supplement national guidelines. The move highlights growing governmental recognition of gambling's social costs and a commitment to proactive, rather than reactive, measures to safeguard community well-being.
