Gambling operators in Cebu City are facing closer monitoring as authorities step up enforcement against activities operating without the required permits and government authorizations.
Mayor Nestor Archival directed the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) to check the permits, licenses and other clearances of gambling operators, including those involved in small town lottery (STL), Lotte, e-Sabong, cockfighting and similar activities.
“I am directing your office to give particular attention to gambling activities within Cebu City, including but not limited to STL, Lotte, e-Sabong, cockfighting, and other similar activities,” Archival said.
Police were also instructed to verify compliance with Cebu City Ordinance No. 1447, as amended by City Ordinance No. 2806, for cockfighting activities.
The ordinance provides requirements for cockpit licensing, authorized activities and cockfighting officials, as well as restrictions on sites and distances.
Authorities are checking whether operators have the necessary government authorization and whether their activities follow regulations governing where and how gambling operations may be conducted.
The local enforcement effort comes as gambling addiction and the promotion of online gambling remain subjects of national policy discussions.
Cebu 3rd District Rep. Karen Hope Garcia has filed House Bill No. 10982, or the “Online Gambling Advertising Prohibition Act of 2026,” which seeks to prohibit the advertising, promotion, endorsement and sponsorship of online gambling.
Garcia cited a 2024 World Health Organization fact sheet describing gambling disorder as a health-harming addictive behavior that can be worsened by the commercialization and digitalization of gambling.
She also cited Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation data showing that online gaming revenues reached P201.12 billion in 2025, surpassing land-based casino revenues for the first time.
Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero earlier filed Senate Bill No. 2347, which also seeks to ban gambling-related advertisements and sponsorships nationwide to address irresponsible and excessive gambling.
Photo courtesy of PhilStar
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