EFFECT OF THE INTERNET GAMBLING IN TALIPAPA QUEZON CITY

Abstract

The proliferation of online gambling in Talipapa, Quezon City, has significantly influenced the local community, yielding both positive and negative outcomes.​ Online gambling has become a substantial economic force in the Philippines, generating significant revenue through taxes and licensing fees. In 2018, online casinos contributed approximately 7.4 billion pesos (about $145 million) in licensing and regulatory fees, bolstering government finances. ​The accessibility of online gambling platforms has heightened the risk of problem gambling behaviors, leading to potential financial hardships and mental health issues. Studies indicate that digital forms of money, such as credit cards and e-wallets, can lead to increased gambling losses, particularly among vulnerable populations. The surge in online gambling has exerted pressure on local housing and real estate markets. The influx of online gambling firms has driven up office space demand, leading to increased real estate prices. This escalation has made housing less affordable for many Filipinos, prompting some to seek properties in nearby provinces. ​Addressing these challenges necessitates a balanced approach, including effective government regulation, public awareness initiatives, and support systems for individuals affected by gambling-related issues. Such measures aim to harness the economic benefits of online gambling while mitigating its adverse effects on the community.​ Participants were selected based on specific criteria relevant to the research objectives. This purposive sampling approach involves intentionally choosing individuals who possess particular characteristics or experiences that align with the study's focus. Data was collected using a combination of qualitative methods, including interviews and focus groups. Interviews provided an opportunity for in-depth exploration of individual perspectives, while focus groups facilitated discussion and interaction among participants, offering a broader understanding of collective viewpoints. Both methods are effective in capturing detailed and nuanced data.​ Data collection sessions were scheduled at times convenient for participants, ensuring maximum engagement and reliability of responses. All interviews and focus groups were conducted by trained facilitators who adhered to ethical guidelines, including obtaining informed consent and ensuring confidentiality. Data was meticulously organized and stored securely to maintain integrity and privacy.​ Prior to data collection, the interview and focus group guides were pilot-tested with a small subset of individuals similar to the study participants. This pilot phase allowed for refinement of questions, ensuring clarity and relevance. Feedback from the pilot test informed adjustments to the instruments, enhancing their effectiveness in capturing the desired data. Collected data was transcribed and analyzed thematically. Thematic analysis is a widely used method in qualitative research that emphasizes identifying, analyzing, and interpreting patterns of meaning (or "themes") within qualitative data. This process involved identifying patterns and categories within the data to draw meaningful conclusions. ​By employing these methods, the study ensured a comprehensive and systematic approach to data collection and analysis, yielding findings that are both reliable and insightful. Understanding the demographic characteristics of study participants is essential for contextualizing research findings and ensuring that results are representative and inclusive. This section presents the demographic profile of the participants, including age, gender, marital status, and length of service. The majority of respondents are between 26 and 35 years old (37.5%), followed by those aged 18-25 and 36-45 (25% each). Only 12.5% are aged 46 and above.​ The sample is evenly split between males and females, each comprising 50% of the respondents.​ A significant majority are single (75%), with the remaining 25% married. 40% of respondents have been in their current position for 0-5 years, 30% for 6-10 years, 15% for 11-15 years, and 15% have served for 16 years or more.​ Frequencies and percentages were calculated for each category within the demographic variables. This approach facilitates understanding of the sample composition and allows for comparisons with broader population demographics.​ Online gambling has become widespread in Barangay Talipapa, with many residents engaging in activities such as online casinos, sports betting, and poker. This trend aligns with the broader growth of online gambling in the Philippines, which has seen significant expansion in recent years. ​The proliferation of online gambling has led to various socioeconomic challenges, including financial hardships for individuals and families. This mirrors the situation in other parts of the Philippines, where gambling has been associated with both cultural significance and societal issues. Despite existing regulations, illegal online gambling operations persist, often involving forced labor and other criminal activities. Recent raids have uncovered large-scale cybercrime operations linked to online gambling, highlighting the need for more effective enforcement. ​Gambling has become deeply embedded in Filipino culture, influencing social interactions and community dynamics. However, this cultural aspect also contributes to the normalization of gambling behaviors, potentially leading to increased participation and associated risks. The balance between economic benefits and societal costs remains a complex issue. Current law enforcement efforts are inadequate in curbing illegal online gambling operations. The persistence of such activities suggests gaps in regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms.