Manila: Senator Bam Aquino on Monday expressed his opposition to a blanket ban on violent video games, advocating instead for the strict enforcement of age restrictions. Aquino emphasized that numerous studies have found no direct link between video games and incidents of violence, suggesting that video games, as an art form, do not incite violent behavior.

According to Philippines News Agency, Aquino highlighted that video games have been around for nearly 50 years and are often used as scapegoats whenever violent incidents occur. He argued for better implementation of age restrictions on mature-rated games, akin to existing guidelines for films and television.

Aquino stated that video game and online stores should enforce stricter rules regarding children's access to mature video games. He opposed a general ban on video games, suggesting that it would not be a viable solution to addressing violence.

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian has proposed expanding the powers of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) to regulate video and online games. Gatchalian's bill aims to prohibit the sale or distribution of video games rated 'Adults Only' by the Board and prevent minors from purchasing or accessing such games using false age evidence.

Gatchalian's Senate Bill 1063, known as the Video and Online Games and Outdoor Media Regulation Act, seeks to amend the Presidential Decree 1986 that created the MTRCB, focusing on the safety and well-being of children exposed to new technologies.

Aquino underscored the crucial role of parents in monitoring their children's access to games and ensuring they only engage with age-appropriate content. He also called on game developers to enhance the safety of online gaming platforms, particularly those for children, to guard against online predators and other harmful entities.