REPRESENTATIVE Nathaniel “Atty. Nat” M. Oducado of 1-TAHANAN Party-list has called for a House investigation into the alarming rise of online gambling addiction among Filipino women, particularly housewives.
In an interview on DZRH, Oducado revealed that their data indicates 32 percent of women addicted to online gambling spend a minimum of ₱1,000 per week, with housewives representing a significant portion of this demographic.
He expressed concern over the devastating financial consequences this addiction has on families. This call for investigation follows Oducado’s filing of House Resolution No. 42, urging a thorough probe into the widespread problem of online gambling.
Oducado’s resolution emphasizes the need to investigate the detrimental effects of online gambling addiction across various sectors of the population, including youth and minors.
He highlighted that 60 percent of those involved in online gambling are low-income earners with monthly incomes of ₱15,000 or less, citing examples such as tricycle drivers who gamble away their earnings instead of working.
While Oducado acknowledged a lack of data currently linking online gambling addiction to government aid recipients, he suggested that it’s highly probable some aid recipients are falling victim to this addiction, further emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation.
The representative stressed the urgency of addressing this issue, particularly its impact on vulnerable populations.
The investigation aims to determine the extent of the problem and to recommend effective measures to combat online gambling addiction and protect vulnerable individuals and families from its devastating consequences.
The House investigation is expected to delve into the various aspects of online gambling in the Philippines, including its accessibility and marketing strategies, and will likely recommend policy changes to better regulate the industry and protect its citizens.
