ALARMED by the increasing number of students falling prey to online gambling, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday announced his intention to pursue a Senate inquiry into the issue, stressing the need for education-based interventions to protect young learners.

“Sugal sa online, sugat sa kinabukasan. Iligtas natin ang kabataan!” Gatchalian said, warning that the growing prevalence of online gambling among students threatens their future.

Through the proposed inquiry, Gatchalian aims to gather data and insights that will guide the development of policies and programs within the education sector to limit students’ exposure to gambling platforms.

The senator is also advocating for the swift passage of the Online Gambling Regulatory Act, which seeks to impose strict regulations on the industry and mitigate its harmful effects on vulnerable populations, particularly minors and students.

In addition, Gatchalian has refiled the Electronic Gadget-Free Schools Act, which would prohibit the use of mobile devices and electronic gadgets during class hours — a step he said is necessary to restore focus in classrooms and safeguard the quality of education.

“We need to ensure that our learning spaces are free from distractions and harmful influences. The combination of online gambling and unregulated gadget use is a dangerous mix for young minds,” he added.

Gatchalian’s legislative push comes amid growing public concern over the digital habits of students and the long-term impact of online vices on their education and mental health.