AMID the continued proliferation of online gambling, the Department of Health (DOH) on Friday, August 15, 2025, called on individuals with gambling addiction to seek help.
In an interview, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said they are encouraging those hooked on gambling, including online gambling, to avail themselves of psychiatric assistance from the government.
“If you have a gambling addiction and want to seek treatment, there are services available at the DOH,” said Herbosa.
“All those who want to be examined are welcome at any of our hospitals that offer psychiatric assistance services,” he added.
Earlier, DOH Spokesman Albert Domingo said they are preparing their Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers nationwide to handle cases of gambling addiction.
“The DOH is working to increase the capacity of its rehabilitation centers to treat patients with mental disorders, specifically those with Impulse Control Disorder,” he added.
Domingo said this is coupled with efforts from the health sector to combat the stigma associated with mental health issues.
“This effort aims to encourage more people to seek help without fear of shame or discrimination,” said Domingo.
The DOH said gambling in general is a form of behavioral addiction called Impulse Control Disorder.
It noted that online platforms only make gambling more accessible to the general public. (Anton Banal/SunStar Philippines)