The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has called on Congress and relevant government agencies to study possible measures against violent video games, including a potential ban, citing concerns over their effect on young people.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla raised the issue during a press conference at Camp Crame on Wednesday, warning that repeated exposure to violent content in gaming could have serious effects on minors.
“Maraming puwedeng malubhang mangyayari. Now having said that, I believe also that games espousing violence like Gorebox should be permanently banned in the Philippines,” Remulla said.
For Filipino parents and guardians, the statement signals that game content restrictions may move from informal household decisions to a matter of national policy, depending on how Congress responds to the DILG’s call.
The department’s statement follows renewed public concern over learner safety after a reported school shooting in Tacloban City involving two suspects aged 14 and 15. The incident left three students dead and injured others, and has intensified discussion on the possible influences and risk factors behind youth violence, including exposure to violent digital content.
Remulla said violent video games may affect the behavioral development of young players.
“[Games] desensitize young people into the elements of death, elements of violence, and elements of murder,” he said.
He added that legislative action should be examined as part of the response.
“Congress should also study the matter kung paano mapigilan ito,” Remulla said.
The DILG reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Filipino youth and promoting responsible engagement with digital platforms.
No bill, timeline, or specific regulatory framework has been announced. Congress has yet to indicate whether it will take up the DILG’s call as a legislative priority.
