SILLIMAN UNIVERSITY

Ethics of the Christian Faith

CHS 3 - SECTION I

CASE STUDY: GAMBLING

Submitted to:
Ms. Leah Joy Capilitan
Course Instructor

Submitted by: Group 8

Adrian Balolong
Dartagnan Brandt Gador
Val Lood
Donnielou Therese Regalado
Keisha Rein Saycon

FEBRUARY 2024
I. Introduction

Gambling has been a part of human culture for generations, growing from basic

games of chance to a multibillion-dollar business. While gambling is commonly viewed

as a source of enjoyment and potential financial gain, it also has serious social, economic,

and psychological consequences for individuals and communities.

Throughout history, several types of gambling have emerged, including traditional

casino games, sports betting, online gambling, and even speculative investments in

financial markets. Gambling has become much more accessible as a result of

technological advancement, allowing people to partake from the comfort of their own

homes or on the road via mobile devices. This unprecedented level of accessibility has

sparked concerns about the risk of addiction and financial disaster for vulnerable people.

Gambling addiction, which is officially recognized as a behavioral addiction

condition, may have disastrous effects on individuals and their loved ones. The attraction

of quick money and the excitement of risk-taking can set off a cycle of compulsive

gambling behavior, which frequently results in substantial financial debt, broken

relationships, and mental health difficulties. Understanding the psychological factors that

cause gambling addiction is critical for designing effective intervention tactics and

support networks for people in need.

This case study aims to dive into the complexities of gambling, exploring its

various impacts on society. By analyzing real-life situations and conducting research, we

aim to deepen our understanding of gambling behavior and its societal effects. Through

thorough analysis, we hope to contribute to discussions on responsible gambling and the

overall well-being of individuals and communities.

II. Definition of Terms

Before diving into the intricate world of gambling, it’s important to establish a

foundational understanding of key terms that define this realm.

● Gambling: The act of wagering or betting money or something of value on an

event with an unknown result in order to gain more money or other items of value

than was wagered.

● Addiction: A complex condition characterized by a strong physical or

psychological need or urge to do something or use something. It is a dependence

on a substance or activity despite adverse consequences.

● Behavioral addiction: A form of addiction involving compulsion to engage in a

particular behavior, such as gambling, despite negative consequences. It is similar

to drug addiction except that the individual is not addicted to a substance, but

he/she is addicted to the behavior or the feeling experienced by acting out the

behavior.

● Compulsive gambling: A disorder characterized by being unable to resist

impulses to gamble. This can lead to severe financial problems, unemployment,

crime or fraud, and damage to relationships.

● Responsible gambling: Engaging in gambling activities in a manner that

minimizes harm to oneself or others, often involving self-regulation and

awareness of potential risks.

● PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation): The

government-owned and controlled corporation responsible for regulating and

 overseeing gambling activities in the Philippines, including casinos, sports

betting, and other gaming establishments.

● POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators): Online gambling operators

licensed by PAGCOR to offer gambling services to offshore players, typically

based in the Philippines but catering to international markets.

● E-Games (Electronic Gaming): Refers to electronic gaming machines or online

gaming platforms regulated by PAGCOR, offering various casino-style games

such as slots, poker, and roulette.

● Presidential Decree No. 1602: Enacted in 1978, this decree declares illegal

gambling as a public nuisance and imposes penalties for participation in or

operation of illegal gambling activities. The law states a need to increase penalties

in order to be more effective in combating this social menace which dissipate the

energy and resources of the people.

● Republic Act No. 9287: Known as the Expanded Anti-Illegal Gambling Act of

2004, R.A. No. 9287 is an act increasing the penalties for illegal number games,

amending certain provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1602, and for other

purposes.

● Presidential Decree No. 1869: This decree, issued in 1983, establishes PAGCOR

as the sole government agency authorized to operate and regulate gambling and

gaming activities in the Philippines, including casinos, gaming clubs, and online

gambling operations.

● Republic Act No. 10175: Known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, this

law includes provisions for the prevention, investigation, suppression and

 imposition of penalties related to online gambling, aiming to regulate internet

activities, including online gaming and betting.

● Executive Order No. 13: Issued in 2017 by President Rodrigo Duterte, this order

aims to strengthen the fight against illegal gambling and clarifying the jurisdiction

and authority of concerned agencies in the regulation and licensing of gambling

and online gaming facilities. Particularly focused on online gambling not

authorized by PAGCOR.

III. Facts surrounding the issue. Ethical Analysis, Concerned parties and People

involved

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that gambling disorders affect a

significant portion of the adult population worldwide, with prevalence rates ranging from

0.1% to 5.8%. However, despite this substantial impact on public health, the issue is

frequently overlooked and under prioritized by health policymakers.

People affected by the tendency to participate in gambling ranges in different

groups. At the forefront are the individuals directly affected by problem gambling, who

experience heightened levels of stress, depression, anxiety, and even resort to coping

mechanisms such as alcohol and substance misuse. This not only impacts their mental

well-being but also leads to relationship breakdowns, poor performance in various life

domains, and, tragically, instances of suicide. Families of problem gamblers also bear the

brunt of these consequences, facing emotional distress and financial instability.

Moreover, the secondary effects of poor mental health due to problem gambling

extend to chronic diseases such as increased risk of cardiovascular events. Societal issues
like homelessness and crime often stem from the interplay between gambling behavior

and other poor health behaviors, exacerbated in socioeconomically deprived areas where

problem gambling is most prevalent. The financial burden of problem gambling on wider

society is staggering, with estimates reaching billions of dollars in countries like the UK

and Australia.

In this ethical analysis, the concerned parties encompass not only the individuals

directly affected by problem gambling but also policymakers, regulatory bodies, and the

gambling industry itself. Policymakers face the ethical dilemma of balancing individual

freedoms with the need to protect public health and well-being, while regulatory bodies

must navigate the complexities of overseeing an industry that contributes to both

economic growth and social harm. The gambling industry, akin to multinational tobacco

and alcohol companies, employs tactics to induce and maintain demand, raising ethical

questions about corporate responsibility and the exploitation of vulnerable populations.

Addressing problem gambling as a global health issue requires concerted efforts

from various authorities, including governments, public health institutions, and advocacy

groups. Ethical considerations must center on promoting responsible gambling practices,

providing adequate support and resources for those affected by problem gambling, and

holding the gambling industry accountable for its actions. By prioritizing the well-being

of individuals and communities over profit motives, society can strive towards a more

ethical approach to gambling regulation and harm reduction

IV. Data Statistics

Based on the Annual Survey of Philippine Business and Industry (ASPBI), gambling and

betting activities reported the highest number of 1,668 establishments or 58.6 percent of the total

establishments under the Arts, Entertainment and Recreation Section. This suggests a significant

presence and contribution of the gambling industry within this sector of the Philippine economy,

highlighting its prominence in the country’s recreational landscape.

Figure 1. Distribution of Establishments Under Arts, Entertainment and Recreation

Section by Industry Group: Philippines, 2021

In another survey conducted by TGM Research, using a sample size of 697, and a

demographic of respondents ages 18-64 years old, results showed that at least 75% of the sample

group were involved in gambling or betting–including sports betting, lottery games, online card

games, casino, online slots, in person betting, etc.

 Figure 2. Betting Incidence in the Philippines

Figure 3. Betting Incidence according to age and gender

 Figure 4. Frequency of Sports Betting

Figure 5. Frequency of betting according to Age and Gender

Based on the data from Figures 4 and 5, the majority of the respondents engage in betting

monthly or weekly. This implies widespread and regular participation in gambling activities,

potentially indicating cultural acceptance, significant expenditure on gambling, and possibly

signifying a level of dependency or addiction for some individuals, highlighting potential

concerns regarding responsible gambling practices and the need for appropriate regulation and

support system.
 Figure 6. Reasons to Betting

Figure 7. Reasons to Betting according to Age and Gender

 Figures 6 and 7 reveals varied motivations for betting money. The top reasons include the

desire to win money (49%), enjoyment of the excitement and experience (52%), belief that

betting enhances the interest of a game (42%), and appreciation for the competitive aspect

(40%). A smaller portion bets due to the social atmosphere (18%), curiosity to try something

new (27%), availability of disposable income (28%), viewing it as a hobby (15%), or being

influenced by acquaintances (22%). Only a minor fraction (3%) reported no specific reason for

betting.

Figure 8. Problematic Gambling Activity Effects

In a survey by National Council on Problem Gambling, results showed problematic

gambling behaviors manifested in various ways, such as an escalating need to gamble to achieve

the same level of excitement, reliance on others to cover debts or bills resulting from gambling

losses, dishonesty to conceal the extent of gambling involvement, and experiencing restlessness

or irritability when attempting to cease or reduce gambling activities. These signs not only
indicate potential addiction but also underscore the detrimental impact gambling can have on

financial stability, relationships, and mental well-being.

V. Biblico-Theological Basis of Ethical Stand

According to the literary work of Bell (1976) “Moral Views On Gambling

Promulgated by Major American Bodies”, the bible is regarded by every religious body

assessed as the primary or final textual source of authority for ethical principles. But

there's no clear law saying, "Thou shalt not gamble." Moreover, the lack of a clear ban on

gambling in the law books of the Old Testament, Jesus' teachings, or Paul's writings

would seem to suggest that during the biblical eras most suited to ethical

decision-making, gambling was not viewed as a major threat to social order or religious

faith. Furthermore, for arguments on the morality of gambling, one goes to other

authorities because the bible is mostly silent on the subject.

These sources include church councils' post-biblical declarations and the

well-reasoned arguments of prominent ethicists discussing gambling as a perceived

danger to both the social and economic order and to individual character. The national

assemblies of God indicated that no official position on gambling had been taken by the

general council. However, a resolution was passed by Mr. Menzies back in 1969 stated

“In view of the alarming erosion of national moral standards, we reaffirm our intention of

holding up Bible standards against all forms of worldliness. We urge all believers to love

not the world, neither the things that are in the world. For all that is in the world, lust of

the flesh and eyes, and the pride of life, is not the Father, but is of the world.”

Furthermore, Menzies also added that in regards to worldliness, the scripture warns
 against the participation of the activity which defiles the body, or corrupts the mind and

spirit; the inordinate love of, pleasures, position or possessions which lead to their

misuse. Based on the resolution on worldliness, it seems to be obvious that the assemblies

of God condemn gambling as immoral in the act itself because it is potentially obsessive

behavior that corrupts the mind and spirit.

VI. Ethical position and application of Biblical teaching and theology

Participating in gambling activities increases the potential of addiction, sets a bad

example for reckless conduct, and promotes an irresponsible work ethic— all of which

have an economic cost in the form of increasing crimes and family issues. It is unethical

to promote the potential of increased crimes in our society, a repercussion if gambling

continues to grow---theft, prostitution, vandalism, and public drunkenness are all causes

for concern. Family issues will also rise, including divorce, bankruptcy, alcoholism,

depression, use of drugs, unemployment, pathological gambling, and domestic violence.

The most powerful opposing forces to gambling growth in a community are societal costs

that affect the beliefs and feelings of the people who live therein.

The Bible teaches us that those who truly dedicate themselves to God will know

that whatever they possess must be handled as stewardship. The Parable of the Bags of

Gold [Talents] (Matthew 25:14-30) shows that the good and faithful servants applied the

talents entrusted to them in a way that pleased the master. The wicked and lazy servant

failed to fulfill his stewardship responsibilities and faced the necessary punishment.

Proverbs 13:11 promotes patient work and consistent investment: "Dishonest money

dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow."
 As stewards, we stand in the position of acknowledging our obligations and set an

example by rejecting gambling in any form as suitable management of divinely provided

resources, time, and ability. Christian duty outweighs all other forms of obligation, and

gambling, in a Christian view, violates the idea of stewardship completely. It is the

exploitation of God-given resources that should be used to honor God by providing for

family needs.

VII. Conclusion

Our comprehensive examination of the issue of gambling has revealed its far-reaching

impacts on individuals, families, and society as a whole. While often perceived as a form of

entertainment and a potential avenue for financial gain, gambling carries significant social,

economic, and psychological consequences.

From the heightened risk of addiction to the detrimental effects on mental health and

relationships, the ramifications of problem gambling are profound. Moreover, the secondary

effects on societal issues such as crime, homelessness, and financial instability underscore the

urgent need for intervention and regulation.

Ethical considerations surrounding gambling involve balancing individual freedoms with

the imperative to protect public health and well-being. As stewards of resources entrusted to us,

it is imperative to reject gambling in any form as it violates the principles of stewardship and

responsible management.
 Furthermore, addressing problem gambling requires concerted efforts from various

stakeholders, including policymakers, regulatory bodies, public health institutions, advocacy

groups, and the gambling industry itself. Prioritizing responsible gambling practices, providing

support for those affected by gambling addiction, and holding the industry accountable are

essential steps toward a more ethical approach to gambling regulation and harm reduction.

VIII. Recommendation

Our study emphasizes the importance of promoting responsible gambling practices and

prioritizing the well-being of individuals and communities over profit motives. By fostering

dialogue, raising awareness, and advocating for change, we can strive towards a society where

the adverse impacts of gambling are minimized, and the dignity and well-being of all individuals

are upheld.
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