Project 7 to 1 Podcast: Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero

In this episode of the Project 7 to 1 Podcast, Carlo Ople
sits down with Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero for a
timely conversation about his push to regulate—and ultimately
prohibit—gambling advertisements and sponsorships across the
Philippines.





The discussion centers on Senate Bill No. 2347, which
seeks to ban gambling-related advertising across television,
radio, print, websites, mobile applications, and social media.
The proposed measure would also prohibit celebrity and influencer
endorsements, gambling sponsorships, promotional giveaways, and
other marketing tactics designed to bring gambling closer to the
public.





Escudero explains why he believes gambling advertising
needs stronger legal restrictions, particularly as online
gambling becomes increasingly accessible through smartphones and
digital platforms. He draws parallels with the country’s
regulation of tobacco advertising and argues that voluntary
industry self-regulation is not enough when it comes to
protecting minors and other vulnerable groups.





Carlo and Senator Chiz also discuss the broader
implications of the proposed ban—from the role of celebrities and
content creators in promoting gambling to the responsibility of
government, media, and the industry itself.





Expect a timely and thought-provoking conversation about
online gambling, advertising, influencer culture, regulation, and
the growing debate over how much exposure to gambling should be
allowed in the everyday lives of Filipinos.