Cebu City’s Sangguniang Panlungsod approved a complete ban on gambling advertisements during its December 16 session. Councillor Joel Garganera authored the resolution.
The measure targets all promotional activity within city limits. This includes billboards, posters, LED screens, printed materials, digital ads, social media campaigns and sponsored events. Any gambling operator conducting promotional activities in Cebu now faces restrictions.
Multiple city departments got enforcement duties. The Business Process and Licensing Office, Cebu City Police Office and City Legal Office will monitor compliance. These agencies received copies of the resolution with instructions to remove gambling ads immediately.
Why Officials Moved Against Gambling Promotions
City leaders cited three main concerns driving the ban. First, gambling ads contribute directly to addiction problems affecting local families. Second, they create financial distress across communities. Third, minors see persuasive gambling content that normalises risky behaviour.
The council said promotional materials make gambling seem ordinary and acceptable. Kids exposed to this marketing may develop harmful habits early. Local reports show online gambling activity has increased, partly due to digital platforms and community sponsorships.
Officials stated the city has an obligation to protect vulnerable groups, and they believe restricting gambling content creates a safer media environment for residents.
What the Ban Actually Covers
The resolution blocks every form of gambling advertising in Cebu City. Physical formats like billboards and posters can’t display gambling content anymore. Digital channels including social media and online ads face the same restrictions.
But there’s more. The council also approved a separate motion during the same session. Government employees can’t play online games during office hours now, especially gambling-related ones.
This builds on an earlier directive. The Management Information and Computer Services Office already blocks gambling sites and VPNs on all city government networks. That includes public Wi-Fi systems.
How Cebu Will Enforce These Rules
City agencies got clear instructions to act fast. They’ll monitor all locations where gambling ads might appear and remove violations immediately.
Government workers face administrative sanctions if caught gambling during work hours. The city’s Code of Ethics covers both physical and online gambling violations.
Officials specifically warned about VPN use. Some people use these tools to bypass restrictions on government digital infrastructure. The city considers this misuse of public resources and will control access.
Cebu’s position is firm: public spaces and government workplaces must stay free from activities that hurt public welfare and productivity. The advertising ban represents the city’s strongest move yet to reduce gambling’s visibility and impact on residents.
