Congressman Briones Wants Total Ban on Online Gambling Including e-Sabong
Congressman Briones is pushing for a total ban on online gambing after he was caught watching ‘sabong’ video during House Session.
Recently, AGAP Party-list Representative Nicanor Briones announced that he will file a bill seeking a total ban on all forms of online gambling, including the popular but controversial e-sabong.
The announcement comes after he was caught on camera watching a cockfight on his phone during a session in the House of Representatives.
Briones admitted that he was the person seen in the viral video but firmly stated that he was not gambling. He explained that a relative had sent him a video showing a fighting rooster and was simply inviting him to sponsor a traditional cockfight.
Curious, Briones said he opened the video, not realizing it would later spark criticism online. He clarified that he has no experience with e-sabong, doesn’t use any digital wallet for gambling, and does not participate in online betting.
The congressman said he only watched the video out of courtesy to his relative and had no intention of breaking any rules or engaging in online gambling.
Following the incident, Briones emphasized the dangers of unregulated online gambling, especially e-sabong, which has led to various social problems in recent years. Because of this, he believes the government should consider a total ban, especially if regulation continues to fail.
The official also expressed regret for checking his phone during session but maintained that his actions were not related to gambling. Now, he’s turning the experience into a move toward tighter policies, hoping to protect more Filipinos from the risks of online gambling.
His proposal aims to put an end to digital betting platforms, which have become more accessible and tempting, particularly for the youth. Briones hopes that lawmakers will support this measure for the sake of public welfare.
Earlier, Congressman Briones explains viral cockfight video seen during house session
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