Philippine police arrest 90 Chinese for illegal gambling
Philippines: Illegal gambling regulation International ...
Philippine raid nabs 342 illegal Chinese gaming workers ...
BSP warns banks vs illegal online gambling
REVISED PENAL CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES - BOOK TWO (FULL TEXT)
illegal gambling in the philippines article
illegal gambling in the philippines article - win
All about taxes, the IMF, the Treasury, the IRS and the ATF!
The International Monetary Fund is an international money system administered by the United Nations. Article IX of the Articles of Agreement make it immune from all laws. On 7/22/1944, the IMF was created artificially under the Bretton Woods Agreement. Harry Dexter White, IMF director and CFR member was a Russian spy. The Department of Treasury can be interchangeable with the IMF as seen in Presidential Documents, Volume 29, #4, pg. 113. The Treasury is under IMF authority. The United States has not had a Treasury since 1921: 41 Stat. Ch. 214, pg. 654. The Secretary of Treasury is not paid by the United States government. He is a US Governor of and paid by the IMF. He is a trustee whose Settler and Beneficiaries are unknown. Public Law 94-564, supra, pg. 5942 U.S. Government Manual, 1990/1991, pgs. 480-481 Secretaries of Treasuries that are U.S. Governors of and paid by the IMF, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Inter-American Development Bank, African Development Bank, Asian Development Bank, African Development Bank and European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, are unregistered agents of foreign powers, and thus guilty of treason. The official names of the Internal Revenue Service are spelled and capitalized as follows: Internal Revenue Bureau of Internal Revenue Bureau of Internal Revenue Service internal revenue internal revenue service INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE Office Revenue Service Federal Alcohol Administration Director of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Division Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms US Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue US Internal Revenue Service in Puerto Rico On 7/9/1953, G.M. Humphrey changed the name of the Bureau of Internal Revenue to the Internal Revenue Service through Treasury Order 150-06. The IRS reduces public allotment of credit. In 1992, 82% of what the government borrowed went to the interest on the debt. 48 USC Section 1421l(i) defines income tax laws. In 1884, it was accepted that the property which every man has is his own labor (and) as it is the original foundation of all other property, so it is the most sacred and inviolable. Therefore, since wages are received as compensation for labor, it can not be legally taxed. Income, however, is the process of profiting from a business (someone else's labor) or investments, and is taxable, as in a Corporation, which is an artificial entity which is given the right to exist by the State. The Constitution only allows the Congress to collect taxes, and that is limited to a uniform excise tax on gasoline, alcohol, tobacco, telephone bills, firearms, and tires, things revolving in one way or another around interstate commerce. 26-US Code 3402(p) defines voluntary withholding agreements. Labor is not profit. In the case U.S. vs Ballard, it was determined income is not defined in the Internal Revenue Code. In Eisner vs. Macklemore, it was determined that income is the gain come to fruition from capital or labor. It is indistinguishable of income. In Lucas vs. Alexander, it was determined that the 1913 Tax Act refers to income only as profit or gain. Under the Victory Tax Act, income tax for the years 1943 and 1944 were to be paid in the years 1944 and 1945. It expired at the end of 1944. Employees of the Federal Government, residents of D.C., naval bases, forts, US citizens of Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, territories and insular possessions were lawfully required to pay Victory Tax. In 31 USC Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, IRS, BATF or secret service are not listed as agencies of the Department of Treasury. The IRS is referenced to be audited by Controller General in Title 31 USC section 713. Under Delegation Order 115 revision 5 of 5/12/1986, the only delegation of authority to conduct audit, enables the IRS and ATF to only audit themselves and for amounts of $750 or less. Any amount above $750 must be audited by the Controller General according to 31 USC. No other authority to audit exists. Order 191 states they can levy on property but only if in the hands of 3rd parties. 26-CFR 1.6091, explains the Director of International Operations and filing requirements. Nothing is filed with the IRS. There is no regulation pertaining to failure to file. There are no filing requirements. Al Capone was jailed for tax due on alcohol illegally imported from Canada. He did not pay duties and excises on this alcohol. His partner was Edgar Brothman, the owner of Seagrams, who made a deal with the U.S. Government to get off. IRS money spends at least a year in a "Quad Zero" account under an Individual Master File. The Director of the IRS can do whatever he wants with the money. It usually proceeds to the Director of the Service Center. Under Treasury Order 91, IRS money is dispersed to the Agency for International Development, the military arm of the United Nations, which provides for district directors, directors of service centers and assistant commissioners to become members of board of directors of the corporation that doles out money. William Casey, CIA director, and head of AID, funneled millions to the Soviet Union to be spent building the Kama River Truck Factory. Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution forbids unapportioned direct taxes upon citizens of the 50 states. The Constitution forbids withholding tax. In Pollock v. Farmers' Loan & Trust Co., it was concluded that direct taxes must be apportioned. According to Clause 17 of Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution, the Federal Government is limited to governing its own property. The federal government can only tax on Federal Government Internal Revenue. The government has no duty to citizens / individuals. The Federal Government's taxation is limited to 5 activities:
domestic corporations charted by the US government
net profits derived within the US by alien or foreign firms
net profits from foreign entities
net profits derived from Federal contracts for government upkeep, excise tax and privileges
net profits derived from wages and salaries of Federal employees
That includes windfall profits like offshore oil wells, war profits such as income from states and trusts maintained by the Federal Government for people in the military like Marine Killed In Duty trust fund, customs taxes, and the State Department. The power of the Federal Government is limited to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several state and Indian tribes, according to Clause 3 of Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution. In 18 USC Section 921, the term interstate or foreign commerce includes commerce between any place in a state, and any place outside of that state, or within any possession of the United States, not including the Canal Zone or D.C. but such terms does not include commerce between places within the same state but through any place outside of that state. 28 USC Rule 54(c), Application of Terms: "As used in these rules the following terms have the designated meanings. 'Act of Congress' includes any act of Congress locally applicable to and in force in the District of Columbia, in Puerto Rico, in a territory or in an insular possession." In the IRS manual of 4/21/1989, 1132.72, Collection Division, says: "Executes the full range of collection activities on delinquent accounts, which includes securing delinquent returns involving taxpayers outside the United States and those in United States territories, possessions and in Puerto Rico." page 1100-40.1 Director, Office of Taxpayer Service and Compliance: "Responsible for operation of a comprehensive enforcement and assistance program for all taxpayers under the immediate jurisdiction of the Assistant Commissioner (International) .... Directs the full range of collection activity on delinquent accounts and delinquent returns for taxpayers overseas, in Puerto Rico, and in United States possessions and territories." page 1100-40.2 "the Criminal Investigation Division enforces the criminal statutes applicable to income, estate, gift, employment, and excise tax laws ... involving United States citizens residing in foreign countries and nonresident aliens subject to Federal income tax filing requirements by developing information concerning alleged criminal violations thereof, evaluating allegations and indications of such violations to determine investigations to be undertaken, investigating suspected criminal violations of such laws, recommending prosecution when warranted, and measuring effectiveness of the investigation processes" The United States Attorney's Manual of 10/1/1988, Title 6 Tax Division, Chapter 4, page 16, , 6-4.270, Criminal Division Responsibility, states: "The Criminal Division has limited responsibility for the prosecution of offenses investigated by the IRS. Those offenses are: excise violations involving liquor tax, narcotics, stamp tax, firearms, wagering, and coin-operated gambling and amusement machines; malfeasance offenses committed by IRS personnel; forcible rescue of seized property; corrupt or forcible interference with an officer or employee acting under the internal revenue laws; and unauthorized mutilation, removal or misuse of stamps." See 28 C.F.R. Sec. 0.70. If you volunteer that you are a U.S. citizen you have become a U.S. citizen. If you write your name on a line labeled taxpayer you have become a taxpayer. A return is prepared by a taxpayer to submit to Federal Government taxes he/she collected. A 1040 is an income tax return for non-resident alien citizen of the U.S. Virgin Islands residing in one of 50 states or agent thereof. It's a non-taxable return and the money derived from it doesn't go to the government. A taxpayer is a tax collector who submits taxes as a return to the Federal Government. A revenue agent is any duly authorized Commonwealth Internal Revenue Agent of the Department of the Treasury of Puerto Rico. A revenue officer collects taxes and returns then files the returns with the District Director who files the return with the service center showing the taxes he collected in his district. This goes to the super center which files the return with Washington D.C. or with the Secretary of Treasury of Puerto Rico who is the Commissioner of Internal Revenue. He takes deductions for the cost to collect taxes. An employee is employed by the Federal Government. An employer is the Federal Government. An individual is a citizen of Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands. A business is a government, bank or insurance company. A domestic corporation is a corporation residing within D.C., Guam, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Philippines, Northern Mariana Trust Territory, territories, and insular possessions. A resident is an alien citizen of Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, or Puerto Rico who resides within one of the 50 states of the Union or other island possessions. The Federal Government must trick its citizens into voluntarily paying taxes as U.S. Citizens of Guam or Puerto Rico. Guam and the U.S. are mutually interchangeable. In the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, which is the Internal Revenue Code of 1939, the U.S. and Guam are to coordinate individual income tax. 26 CFR 301.7654-1 explains coordination of U.S. and Guam individual income taxes. Section (e) explains military personnel in Guam. pg. 65 of 26 CFR, created 6/1/1938, pertains to the China Trade Act, administered in the Philippines by the Bureau of internal revenue. 31 USC 1321 is the Philippines Customs Administrative Act passed by the Philippine Commission between 9/1/1900 and 8/31/1902. It merged customs and internal revenue in the Philippines. It is administered under general supervision and control of Secretary of Finance and Justice. Trust Fund #1 is the Philippine Special Fund (Customs Duties). Trust Fund #2 is the Philippines Special Fund (internal revenue) enacted by Internal Revenue Law of 1904 pertaining to alcohol taxes in the Philippines. Article 1, Section 2 created the Bureau of Internal Revenue in the Department of Finance and Justice. The Collector of Internal Revenue is the Chief Officer appointed by the Civil Governor with advice and consent of the Philippines Commission. He is paid 8000 pesos per annum salary. Article 1, Section 3: Collector of Internal Revenue under direction of Secretary of Finance and Justice shall have general superintendence of assessment and collection of all taxes and excises imposed by this act or any act amendatory thereof. Trust Fund #62 is the Puerto Rico Special Fund (Internal Revenue). 27 CFR Chapter 1, section 2050.11 of 4/1/1994 defines: Revenue Agent as any internal revenue agent of Treasury of Puerto Rico, Secretary as Secretary of Treasury of Puerto Rico, and US ATF Office as Puerto Rico operating under compliance with the North Atlantic region. Tax Class 6 are violations of alcohol, tobacco or firearms in Puerto Rico. In IRS publication 6209, IRS computer code "TC 150" is for Virgin Islands Returns. Codes 300 - 398 are listed as U.S. and UK Tax Treaty claims involving taxes on narcotics financed in the Cayman Islands and imported into the Virgin Islands. Form 8288 is a backup withholding form for when you import narcotics into the Virgin Islands. Withhold 20% and pay to the Commissioner of Narcotics. The Internal Revenue Manual, Handbook of Delegation Orders of January 17, 1983, page 1229-91 outlines the alleged Internal Revenue Service's system of monetary awards "of up to and including $5,000 for any one individual employee or group of employees in his/her immediate office, including field employees engaged in National Office projects; and contributions of employees of other Government agencies and armed forces members" with the approval of the Deputy Commissioner, "of $5,001 to $10,000 for any one individual or group" with approval of the Deputy Commissioner, "of $10,001 - $25,000 for any one individual or group" with the Commissioner's concurrence, "an additional monetary award of $10,000 (total $35,000) to the President through Treasury and OPM" with the Commissioner's concurrence. The Federal Alcohol Administration Act, 27 USC 201, was created under the National Industrial Reconstruction Act, creating the Federal Alcohol Administration which was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in the 1930s. Under 1940 Reorganization Plan #3, 5 USC 903 Subsection 8 and 9, its office abolished and functions directed to be administered under supervision of Secretary of Treasury through Bureau of Internal Revenue. It was transferred to the Philippines Bureau of Internal Revenue. Reorganization Plan 26 of 1950 transferred the duties of the IRS related to alcohol, tobacco and firearms. See 26 USC Chapters 51 - 53, Chapters 61 - 80, Section 7652, and 7653 in relation to tax and 27 USC Chapter 8. On 6/6/1972, Charles E. Walker issued Treasury Order 120-01 to establish the ATF without legislation or knowledge of the people. It created the Director, Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms division. The ATF is an international police organization made up of the Philosophers of Fire exempt from the laws of the USA. Their jurisdiction is Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The Regional Director of Compliance is the Puerto Rico BATF. The only illegal arms are ones imported from Puerto Rico and taxes not paid on them. In 1975 it was named the Internal Revenue Service. In the 12/15/1976 edition of the Federal Register, Director, ATF replaced by IRS. Title 26-USC Chapters 61 to 80 doesn't pertain to the public. Regulations apply to officers and employees and the ATF / IRS. It explains procedures that include: keeping records, examination of records, determination of district director whether required to file return, internal audit, IRS can audit if under $750, if over $750, it must be conducted by the Inspector General, filing requirements, record keeping, examination assessment, how to pay, tax court, criminal investigation and prosecution. These are delegated to the BATF in Puerto Rico, the Puerto Rican and the Virgin Islands tax agency. They are only relevant to Puerto Rican product. Not permitted to obtain records pertaining to Chapters 61 and 80. Reference: https://www.nationallibertyalliance.org/files/docs/DocumentsEssays/Cooper%20File.pdf
THE PATH OF SETTING UP THE ONLINE CASINO Casino businesses are one of the best money-making industry across the world. There are lots of brick and mortar casinos, bookmakers, online casinos, and gaming arcades across the globe. It cannot be denied that gambling business is a profitable business that many entrepreneurs are seeking to involve in this industry. Gambling businesses are usually owned by many leading and well-known organisations. Therefore, most of the entrepreneurs who involve in casino industry are always including in the Forbes lists in some regions. However, you can find that casino business is strictly regulated by many terms and conditions, therefore operators have to go through many process and paths to achieving the license. In addition, the competition within gambling industry is extremely high that you probably challenge one of the top leading company in the world, and certainly one of the ‘money-burning’ challenges. This article will mainly taking ‘online’ casino platform as the topic for further discussion in licensing, website, software, marketing, technical support, and others which include in an online casino business. Drawing specifically from the online casino business, this article is attempting to take a closer look on how to set-up an online casino platforms and how much would cost for the business.
HFIVE5 – The Top Leading Online Casino In Singapore
https://hfive555.com/en/home Before going through the details of setting-up the online betting business, herewith the recommendation of the best and reliable online casino website which operated in Singapore. The recommendations are coming from the local gambling community and also based on the reviews from internet within betting community. As hfive555.com offers variety of casino games with best graphic and responsive speed to the players, and players would guarantee to experience the remarkable experiences while playing on Hfive5 online betting website. Live casino are also include in hfive555.com, where players can actually interact with the croupiers virtually through their screens. All of the croupiers are highly trained by the local gambling authority before entering to the job, therefore players could definitely worry-free with hfive555.com services. Hfive5 guarantees that its professionalism would definitely satisfy their players and gamblers can safely enjoy any of their favour games with the reliable and licenses online casino in Singapore, Hfive5. As above-mentioned, online gambling platform is one of the most competitive industry across the world, therefore it can be strongly believe that the leading online betting platform, Hfive5 is actually well-known and popular in Singapore.
What to Include or Prepare Before Starting-Up an Online Casino?
Licensing
Casino license is the most pivotal part and the most significant steps for those who planning to run a legitimate online betting platforms. Without doubt, ‘license’ is the document that allow the owner of casino to legally run an online betting platforms in some regions. There are different license providers are available across the globe, therefore the owners can choose particulars licenses provider in order to operate their online casino businesses in specific regions. For instances, there are some popular countries that provides casino licenses for the businesses, such as Curacao, Malta, Philippines, United Kingdom, Montenegro and other nations. Without business license, the online betting platforms would seem as illegal operates and it will be strongly condemned or even taking into the custody by the local authority. A license from offshore state such as Curacao or Alderney would be the best options for the person who seek for cheaper cost license, because of the low taxation within the states. On the other hand, those who need a reputable and higher status license, it is strongly recommended to opt for Swiss or UK licenses.
Benefits of having an online casino license
Once the organisation achieve the license to operate online casino is particular states, the company will possibly attract lots of well-known software providers. Most of the time, quality and popular software providers would not collaborate with fraud organisations which would probably ruin their business reputation.
Online Casino’s Website
Website is the most important and major platform for the businesses who involve in online casino industry. The website cannot be simply organised and managed because all of the revenue are coming from the websites. Therefore, the website should be well develop in order to bring the site to a perfect details. For instance, those stages below-mentioned would be the necessarily steps for person who want to run a perfect website, such as the design & layout, programming & developing front-end web, offline & online marketing promotion, SEO & SEM, and integrating the site’s software.
Marketing
Importantly, giant networks such as Facebook, Instagram, and Google usually not allow gambling advertisement, thus it is strongly recommended organisations should fully understand the rules and restrictions of the social media. Additionally, organisations is strongly recommended to hire an expert who is very familiar with marketing and legal requirements in the ‘sensitive’ industry. In conclusions, the above statements have generally stated the most pivotal part while any person who decide to involve in online gambling industry. There are many steps and procedures involved, thus it is strongly recommended the person who interested in gambling industry should take serious consideration in initial steps before entering to the online casino industry, also could refer to hfive555.com as a perfect example.
The value of parenting when it comes to microtransactions
Lately there have been a few discussions about microtransactions and gamers asking for more control/regulations. As someone who:
grew up in the 80s and 90s (I’m almost 38 now)
grew up in Southeast Asia
I’m also a parent
I do think I might not be part of that crowd that’s too rabid to see government regulations. ————— Personal opinion: I remember back then when only a handful of people lobbied for government restrictions in games — Jack Thompson (remember that guy?) and a handful of parents who felt their kids were getting addicted to gambling and starting to worship the devil (because of trading card games like Magic the Gathering and Pokémon).
Fun fact: Parents tried to sue trading card companies several times for “getting their kids addicted to gambling” but the courts dismissed all those cases. In fact, legal experts even mentioned that it was simply a case of bad parenting
I hope I’m not the only one who’s too old to remember the 90s. There might be some folks here who were already teens or adult around that time.
Nowadays, gamers themselves are the ones pushing for more government control and legislation. It’s a little odd how the wheel has turned. Another part of me is my cultural upbringing. I grew up in the Philippines where we were exposed to microtransactions in freemium online games since the early 2000s. It meant that our parents/elders were highly aware of what video games could do to us while growing up. As a child, parents would give me a handful of quarters for the arcade or for the local fair (“color game” and “ring toss” are like kiddie forms of gambling then). The key factor here is that when I ran out of money because I was too stupid when spending, my elders would reel me back in and set me straight. It’s why I never developed a gambling vice... I learned the value of money at a young age. Also, some parts of Asia (if some Western gamers don’t know yet) it’s actually common for the younger generation to stay with their folks until their married, and even then, they might just live in the building next door or close by. We don’t just pack up our things and disappear once we turn 18, when the only time we see our folks again is during the holidays. And so parents not only play a crucial role in our development as children but even until our young adult years. Good parenting plays a key role in turning us into responsible people. Likewise, given that other parts of the world have people who aren’t as privileged or as wealthy, kids end up preferring free/cheaper games, while at the same time parents don’t just have a dozen credit cards lying around the house (the same credit cards that kids grab to buy gems/premium currency which the internet fully lays the blame on microtransactions). ————— So yes, it got me thinking: There seems to be a push among gamers to focus on government regulations because of microtransactions. However, very few people ever mention that parents should take a more active role, or be more responsible in raising and monitoring their kids.
Is this simply because people feel that parents can no longer do these things and so the government/lawmakers should step in?
Is this because of cultural differences?
As for gamers who are also parents, are you able to raise children/young gamers responsibly? Or do you feel that the government should step in?
———— Again, this is just a personal opinion: Personally, I simply believe that before the government or the rest of the industry steps in, the first responsibility in raising a child is always on me since I am a parent. If my child ends up spending too much or falls in love with microtransactions and lootboxes, that’s not the failure of the government nor the company — that is my failure as a parent because I should have taught my child how to value his time, his money, and his future. Technology may change. Games may change. Laws may change. But parenting responsibilities are a constant since time immemorial. Just my two cents. Thanks everyone. ————- Important Edit: One user was kind enough to mention the definition of gambling in the United States. Since our specific conversation started to turn to legalities, I also added several examples of lawsuits that were dismissed by US courts because the judicial system itself did not consider these TCGs/microtransactions as in violation of gambling regulations. Please see attached comment here with links provided.. Just a note reminding folks who just joined the discussion in case legal proceedings/definitions are brought up. ————- Thanks to those who replied, and please continue the discussion. I tried to reply to almost everyone and even added some helpful links and studies. Since I’m from the Philippines, I’ll reply to other users tomorrow since it’s almost midnight here. Closing 1: Parenting A big thanks to everyone who joined in the discussion. This last edit will address a lot of the points that were made and tie it in to the theme of the main post. The topic is initially about the practical application of good parenting even before government regulations come into play. There's a pretty good reason why I pointed out my experiences as a kid, my upbringing, as well as parenting values. All of those points were to elicit a reaction from gamer parents out there. As you can see, in thesethreetopics -- there were but a handful of comments from actual parents themselves. Unfortunately, a vast majority did not mention being a parent or how this affects them as a parent. At the same time, you might notice that only a few respondents mentioned their own spending habits. Barely anyone mentioned their own practical examples of what their spending has been like. Many immediately went for the "microtransactions are bad" argument. My belief is that a majority of respondents are not parents themselves (or have barely been exposed to MTX), and thus it lacks that practical experience or knowledge. Ergo, the responses come from outside sources such as YouTube or internet forums (there's a reason why some of the replies you see might remind you of something you've already heard in a video). Closing 2: Microtransactions, Lootboxes, And Children There's a reason why I added bits and pieces as cues: "90s parents = video games are bad" moral conundrum, Jack Thompson and various lobbyists, previous lawsuits in the US because TCGs were thought of as "illegal gambling," growing up as a child in Southeast Asia, Asia's experience with MTX since the early-2000s, as well as how gamers have been averse to governments stepping in just to affect video games in the past. These are supposed to convey how gamers of yesteryears have viewed these issues in the past, and now how the tables have turned where gamers themselves are the ones clamoring for government regulations. It isn't necessarily an argument for or against microtransactions, and we simply look at the reasoning behind making the argument in the first place. Now, relating it to the present day, you might also know that a number of studies, including a WHO classification of "gaming disorder," and even general practical applications have been met with apprehension and doubt from gamers.
For instance, you will not get as much traction from discussions about "World of Warcraft and other MMORPGs being addictive" nowadays.
Barely any vehement comments will come with talks about grinding systems, RNG mechanics, or games where people have put in 3,000+ hours.
You probably won't even hear too much backlash about how Twitch streaming and YouTube ensure that gamers remain hooked on video games even after turning off their TVs and putting down their controllers.
You probably also enjoy the idea that people play video games for 12-16+ hours while streaming for that entertainment value, despite the inherent physical and psychological risks that this activity poses. Ever wonder why there have been streamers opening up about psychological problems that have surfaced due to streaming and providing video game entertainment?
People do not bat an eye in spite of studies about the myriad ways that video games and entertainment media keep us addicted and hooked while completely influencing our behaviors. But, when you add "lootboxes = gambling" and "lootboxes = harmful to children" in the mix, it becomes a hot topic. And these ideas have become a prevalent thought among gamers today. I believe there's a good reason for this. There's another prevailing counterpoint to the above and that's:
Many gamers don't necessarily care about "the children" (as loathsome as that sounds). Relating it to Closing 1: Parenting -- many simply see the statement of "lootboxes = gambling = harmful to children" as the most convenient way to curb the proliferation of microtransactions.
In a way, "children" have become the last line of defense for a number of gamers. The only way that lawmakers might step in to finally put a stop to microtransactions ruining games is if children are finally involved in the equation.
Video games, by their very nature, have engaged and hooked us as kids -- whether it's the 80s, 90s, or 2000s.
You could be someone who spent countless quarters in an arcade (the earliest form of "microtransactions").
You could have forgotten your obligations to your friends or family just because you want to play more video games.
You could have gotten addicted to WOW or other MMOs; or "one more turn" in Civ when you realized it's already morning.
You could know of a child whose only hobby and interactions come from Fortnite, as well as streaming being the only medium for them (or any other game that's hoooked them).
It could've led to the worsening of your eyesight, to the lack of social cues, to the rise in narcissism, to depression and anxiety, or the lack of real-life goals and ambitions.
All of these affect you because of psychological implications. However, for the longest time, gamers have espoused the need for self-moderation, or for parents taking on a more active role. And yet, strangely enough, when you put "lootboxes = gambling = bad for children" in the mix, suddenly it's about government regulations? Suddenly it's no longer about "parents being more responsible for their kids?" It's odd because on one hand, you've had all the effects that video games have had on us for decades. A majority of gamers have treated them differently. Yet "lootboxes = gambling = bad for children" exists within its own bubble, where a completely different reaction applies? Just a personal opinion, but again, I do believe this is mostly because gamers see this argument as the last line of defense just so developers will start making games the way they used to.
(Industry/Gamer Culture) Do people still value good parenting when it comes to discussions about microtransactions?
Lately there have been a few discussions about microtransactions and gamers asking for more control/regulations. As someone who:
grew up in the 80s and 90s (I’m almost 38 now)
grew up in Southeast Asia
I’m also a parent
I do think I might not be part of that crowd that’s too rabid to see government regulations. ————— Personal opinion: I remember back then when only a handful of people lobbied for government restrictions in games — Jack Thompson (remember that guy?) and a handful of parents who felt their kids were getting addicted to gambling and starting to worship the devil (because of trading card games like Magic the Gathering and Pokémon).
Fun fact: Parents tried to sue trading card companies several times for “getting their kids addicted to gambling” but the courts dismissed all those cases. In fact, legal experts even mentioned that it was simply a case of bad parenting
I hope I’m not the only one who’s too old to remember the 90s. There might be some folks here who were already teens or adult around that time.
Nowadays, gamers themselves are the ones pushing for more government control and legislatation. It’s a little odd how the wheel has turned. Another part of me is my cultural upbringing. I grew up in the Philippines where we were exposed to microtransactions in freemium online games since the early 2000s. It meant that our parents/elders were highly aware of what video games could do to us while growing up. As a child, parents would give me a handful of quarters for the arcade or for the local fair (“color game” and “ring toss” are like kiddie forms of gambling then). The key factor here is that when I ran out of money because I was too stupid when spending, my elders would reel me back in and set me straight. It’s why I never developed a gambling vice... I learned the value of money at a young age. Also, some parts of Asia (if some Western gamers don’t know yet) it’s actually common for the younger generation to stay with their folks until their married, and even then, they might just live in the building next door or close by. We don’t just pack up our things and disappear once we turn 18, when the only time we see our folks again is during the holidays. And so parents not only play a crucial role in our development as children but even until our young adult years. Good parenting plays a key role in turning us into responsible people. Likewise, given that other parts of the world have people who aren’t as privileged or as wealthy, kids end up preferring free/cheaper games, while at the same time parents don’t just have a dozen credit cards lying around the house (the same credit cards that kids grab to buy gems/premium currency which the internet fully lays the blame on microtransactions). ————— So yes, it got me thinking: There seems to be a push among gamers to focus on government regulations because of microtransactions. However, very few people ever mention that parents should take a more active role, or be more responsible in raising and monitoring their kids.
Is this simply because people feel that parents can no longer do these things and so the government/lawmakers should step in?
Is this because of cultural differences?
As for gamers who are also parents, are you able to raise children/young gamers responsibly? Or do you feel that the government should step in?
———— Again, this is just a personal opinion: Personally, I simply believe that before the government or the rest of the industry steps in, the first responsibility in raising a child is always on me since I am a parent. If my child ends up spending too much or falls in love with microtransactions and lootboxes, that’s not the failure of the government nor the company — that is my failure as a parent because I should have taught my child how to value his time, his money, and his future. Technology may change. Games may change. Laws may change. But parenting responsibilities are a constant since time immemorial. Just my two cents. Thanks everyone. ————- Important Edit:** In case anyone mentions the definition of gambling in the United States, or legal matters... Since our specific conversation might turn to legalities, I also added several examples of lawsuits that were dismissed by US courts because the judicial system itself did not consider these TCGs/microtransactions as in violation of gambling regulations. These are from the 90s:
Just a note reminding folks who just joined the discussion in case legal proceedings/definitions are brought up. ———- Thanks to those who replied, and please continue the discussion. I tried to reply to almost everyone and even added some helpful links and studies. Since I’m from the Philippines, I’ll reply to other users tomorrow since it’s almost midnight here. Closing 1: Parenting A big thanks to everyone who joined in the discussion. This last edit will address a lot of the points that were made and tie it in to the theme of the main post. The topic is initially about the practical application of good parenting even before government regulations come into play. There's a pretty good reason why I pointed out my experiences as a kid, my upbringing, as well as parenting values. All of those points were to elicit a reaction from gamer parents out there. As you can see, in thesethreetopics -- there were but a handful of comments from actual parents themselves. Unfortunately, a vast majority did not mention being a parent or how this affects them as a parent. At the same time, you might notice that only a few respondents mentioned their own spending habits. Barely anyone mentioned their own practical examples of what their spending has been like. Many immediately went for the "microtransactions are bad" argument. My belief is that a majority of respondents are not parents themselves (or have barely been exposed to MTX), and thus it lacks that practical experience or knowledge. Ergo, the responses come from outside sources such as YouTube or internet forums (there's a reason why some of the replies you see might remind you of something you've already heard in a video). Closing 2: Microtransactions, Lootboxes, And Children There's a reason why I added bits and pieces as cues: "90s parents = video games are bad" moral conundrum, Jack Thompson and various lobbyists, previous lawsuits in the US because TCGs were thought of as "illegal gambling," growing up as a child in Southeast Asia, Asia's experience with MTX since the early-2000s, as well as how gamers have been averse to governments stepping in just to affect video games in the past. These are supposed to convey how gamers of yesteryears have viewed these issues in the past, and now how the tables have turned where gamers themselves are the ones clamoring for government regulations. It isn't necessarily an argument for or against microtransactions, and we simply look at the reasoning behind making the argument in the first place. Now, relating it to the present day, you might also know that a number of studies, including a WHO classification of "gaming disorder," and even general practical applications have been met with apprehension and doubt from gamers.
For instance, you will not get as much traction from discussions about "World of Warcraft and other MMORPGs being addictive" nowadays.
Barely any vehement comments will come with talks about grinding systems, RNG mechanics, or games where people have put in 3,000+ hours.
You probably won't even hear too much backlash about how Twitch streaming and YouTube ensure that gamers remain hooked on video games even after turning off their TVs and putting down their controllers.
You probably also enjoy the idea that people play video games for 12-16+ hours while streaming for that entertainment value, despite the inherent physical and psychological risks that this activity poses. Ever wonder why there have been streamers opening up about psychological problems that have surfaced due to streaming and providing video game entertainment?
People do not bat an eye in spite of studies about the myriad ways that video games and entertainment media keep us addicted and hooked while completely influencing our behaviors. But, when you add "lootboxes = gambling" and "lootboxes = harmful to children" in the mix, it becomes a hot topic. And these ideas have become a prevalent thought among gamers today. I believe there's a good reason for this. There's another prevailing counterpoint to the above and that's:
Many gamers don't necessarily care about "the children" (as loathsome as that sounds). Relating it to Closing 1: Parenting -- many simply see the statement of "lootboxes = gambling = harmful to children" as the most convenient way to curb the proliferation of microtransactions.
In a way, "children" have become the last line of defense for a number of gamers. The only way that lawmakers might step in to finally put a stop to microtransactions ruining games is if children are finally involved in the equation.
Video games, by their very nature, have engaged and hooked us as kids -- whether it's the 80s, 90s, or 2000s.
You could be someone who spent countless quarters in an arcade (the earliest form of "microtransactions").
You could have forgotten your obligations to your friends or family just because you want to play more video games.
You could have gotten addicted to WOW or other MMOs; or "one more turn" in Civ when you realized it's already morning.
You could know of a child whose only hobby and interactions come from Fortnite, as well as streaming being the only medium for them (or any other game that's hoooked them).
It could've led to the worsening of your eyesight, to the lack of social cues, to the rise in narcissism, to depression and anxiety, or the lack of real-life goals and ambitions.
All of these affect you because of psychological implications. However, for the longest time, gamers have espoused the need for self-moderation, or for parents taking on a more active role. And yet, strangely enough, when you put "lootboxes = gambling = bad for children" in the mix, suddenly it's about government regulations? Suddenly it's no longer about "parents being more responsible for their kids?" It's odd because on one hand, you've had all the effects that video games have had on us for decades. A majority of gamers have treated them differently. Yet "lootboxes = gambling = bad for children" exists within its own bubble, where a completely different reaction applies? Just a personal opinion, but again, I do believe this is mostly because gamers see this argument as the last line of defense just so developers will start making games the way they used to.
While illegal gambling per se is not among the ... emphasized that no person or organization other than those licensed by PAGCOR and other government agencies may operate gambling in the Philippines. M a n i l a. PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 1602. PRESCRIBING STIFFER PENALTIES ON ILLEGAL GAMBLING. WHEREAS, Philippine Gambling Laws such as Articles 195-199 of the Revised Penal Code (Forms of Gambling and Betting), R.A. 3063 (Horse racing Bookies), P.D. 449 (Cockfighting), P.D. 483 (Game Fixing), P.D. 510 (Slot Machines) in relation to Opinion Nos. 33 and 97 of the Ministry of Justice, P.D. 1306 ... May 26 2017. On February 2 2017, Executive Order no 13, which aims to strengthen the fight against illegal gambling in the Philippines, was issued. Under this executive order, relevant law enforcement agencies are brought together to intensify the fight against illegal gambling through coordination and by promptly acting on requests from the ... Philippine authorities said on Friday they arrested 342 Chinese workers in a raid on an unlicensed gambling operation, part of a crackdown on illegal migration and an illicit gaming industry that... The following are the gambling laws of the Philippines: PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1602 It amended the criminal provisions of Arts. 195-199 of the Revised Penal Code of the Philippens (as amended), Republic Act No. 3063, Presidential Decree Nos. 483, 449, 510 and 1306 and all letters of instructions, executive orders, rules and regulations, city and municipal ordinances which are inconsistent ... Passed during the Fourteenth Congress of the Republic of the Philippines, the law addresses the calls of different stakeholders to tighten the rules and policies on illegal number game, particularly Jueteng. Before the passage of the Act, the gambling laws in the country is described as ‘friendly and loose’. ILLEGAL ASSEMBLIES AND ASSOCIATIONS Art. 146. Illegal assemblies. ... processed, assembled in or imported into the Philippines, or of any article in the manufacture of which such manufactured, produced ... GAMBLING AND BETTING Art. 195. What acts are punishable in gambling. MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Philippine police have arrested 90 Chinese for allegedly running an online gambling hub without permits and for violating quarantine restrictions, officials said Sunday. Police made the mass arrests Friday after spotting some of the suspects converging closely without face masks outside a rented apartment in violation of quarantine restrictions, in Cavite province ... Earlier this year, Executive Order no 13, which aims to strengthen the fight against illegal gambling in the Philippines, was issued. EO No. 13 mandates relevant law enforcement agencies to coordinate on campaigns against illegal gambling, and clarifies the territorial jurisdiction of government authorities that issue licenses for gambling and online gaming facilities. The Philippines has emerged as one of Asia's hottest gambling hubs after it launched its 120-hectare (1.2 square km) gaming and leisure enclave called Entertainment City in the capital, modelled ...
Legal Minds (Monday to Friday 10:30am and 11:00 pm DZRH TV)Topic: Gambling lawLIKE and SHARE www.facebook.com/marktolentinolaw and visit http://www.marktolen... Failon Ngayon delves into gambling addiction in light of the recent deadly Resorts World Manila attack. Subscribe to the ABS-CBN News channel! ... Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. Can casinos being put up in our country really boost tourism?Subscribe to the ABS-CBN News channel! - http://bit.ly/TheABSCBNNewsWatch the full episodes of T... What happens inside the brain of a gambling addict when they make a bet - and can the secret to their addiction be found within the brain itself? BBC Panoram... Please LIKE and SHARE www.facebook.com/marktolentinolaw and subscribe www.youtube.com/marktolentinolaw for more details about Philippine Laws. You can email ... Online Gambling came under the spotlight at the recently held National Gambling Conference. This as revenue generated by the legal gambling industry is increasingly being eroded by online and ... Have been to many fairs in my lifetime, and used to work as a fairground worker for a few years in my youth, but have never seen a fair quite like this one b... (3 Apr 2012) HEADLINE: Philippines: Fighting dogs being put downCAPTION: Dozens of pit bulls rescued from Philippine dog fights will be put down, say animal ...