QUEZON CITY — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued a nationwide ban on online gambling for all its personnel, attached agencies, and local government officials, warning that violators will face administrative and possible criminal charges.
In Memorandum Circular No. 2025-082, signed on August 12, the DILG expanded the existing prohibition on casino visits—covered by a 2016 directive from the Office of the President—to include internet-based gambling platforms, citing reports of public officials engaging in the activity.
The department stressed that such behavior undermines the integrity of public service and violates ethical standards under the 1987 Constitution, Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees), and other existing laws.
The order applies to all elected and appointed officials at the provincial, city, municipal, and barangay levels; DILG central and field office personnel; and employees of attached agencies including the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, National Youth Commission, and others.
Online gambling, for purposes of the directive, covers any internet-based wagering activity except those operated or regulated by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.
Violators face penalties under civil service rules, including suspension of six months to one year for the first offense and dismissal for the second, as well as potential criminal liability.
The policy takes effect immediately, with agency heads ordered to ensure the directive is widely disseminated within their jurisdictions.