Councilors Van Oliver Dicang and Yuri Weygan and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President John Rhey Mananeng have proposed an ordinance prohibiting gambling-related companies from sponsoring, promoting, or taking part in city-sanctioned activities and festivals in Baguio City to keep public celebrations aligned with family-friendly values and shield children and other vulnerable groups from exposure to gambling promotions.
Under the measure, a “gambling entity” covers any individual or organization engaged in games of chance, betting, wagering, or similar activities, whether land-based or online, including casinos, online betting platforms, e-games, and lotteries, except those operated by the government for public welfare.
The ordinance lists prohibited acts including allowing gambling entities to sponsor or co-sponsor events, display logos or promotional materials, set up booths or stalls, enter into partnership agreements related to public events, or participate indirectly through third-party representatives acting on their behalf.
Event organizers and the Baguio City Tourism Office, along with the City Mayor’s Office and other organizing bodies, are tasked to enforce the prohibition in all city-sanctioned activities.
The City Legal Office is directed to review sponsorship contracts for compliance, while the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) will provide guidance on the social impact of proposed partners. The Permits and Licensing Division may deny or revoke permits of events found violating the ordinance.
Organizers who allow gambling entities in their events will be penalized. A first offense means a written warning and cancellation of the event permit. A second offense carries a P2,000.00 to P5,000.00 fine, cancellation of the event, and a one-year ban from organizing events in Baguio City. A third and succeeding offense results in a P5,000.00 fine, cancellation of the event, and a permanent ban. The city may also publicly name the organizers and the gambling entities involved.
The proposed ordinance was approved on first reading by the Baguio City Council on March 30, 2026 and subsequently referred to the Committee on Laws and Governance for review. **Jordan G. Habbiling
