Philippines to Enhance AML Measures Targeting Online Gambling

(AsiaGameHub) –   Philippine lawmakers are aiming to bolster the nation’s anti-money laundering legislation via a new amendment that could bring stricter enforcement against online gambling operators.

Senator Joel Villanueva has filed an amendment to the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA), asserting that updates are required to respond to the shifting financial landscape and growing adoption of digital financial services and virtual assets.

Should it be put into effect, the new measure will broaden the range of businesses obligated to meet enhanced AMLA compliance standards to include online gambling operators, virtual asset service providers, and more.

The amendment would also add extra customer due diligence and reporting rules, along with stricter penalties for companies found in violation of the new regulations. 

Regarding the reforms, Villanueva stated: “Ongoing reforms are essential not just to stay in line with international standards, but also to protect the credibility and stability of the Philippine financial system.

“Money talks, but dirty money whispers usually through complicit entities. We need a tougher law to catch up with the criminals trying to cover their illicit financial tracks.”

The Philippines was placed on the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) grey list in June 2021 and was ultimately removed in February 2025 after completing its action plan to address gaps in its AML enforcement approach.

Villanueva has contended that the changes would address FATF’s focus on the need for more robust investigative capabilities, oversight of companies covered by a nation’s AML laws, and quicker enforcement after violations.

Under the proposals, the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) would receive expanded authority to monitor and act on suspected illegal activities—including the power to issue orders suspending transactions and freezing assets when appropriate.

Heightened black market focus

Reducing illegal gambling activity has been a key priority for Philippine senators, especially after agencies like the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Centre (CICC) faced criticism for failing to shut down illegal gambling operations.

After a Senate hearing last month that examined proposed changes to the Philippines’ online gambling laws, the CICC confirmed it has partnered with the Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC) to enhance enforcement.

The Philippine News Agency reported that the CICC has been tasked with creating case files for the PAOCC—the primary authority responsible for combating the black market in the Philippines.

The CICC said in a statement: “This partnership proclaims CICC and PAOCC’s commitment to spearheading the abolition of illegal online practices nationwide, persisting with the goal of purging the digital landscape and bringing the perpetrators to justice to a reputable and guarded online environment.”