Yes, the Philippines is a democratic country, and my people are free to speak about what they want. However, decisions can't be made too easily, and the opinion of any religious belief is granted. Investigation and legal rules are still needed before a conclusion is made about whether the government banned gambling or not. But I think the point here is that Catholic leaders just show help for the government to see the real sentiment of the people who fall into addiction. All they need is for the government to take action, not to ban gambling completely. Unless it was illegal.
I'm not sure the level of religious Catholics in Philippines, who would stick to the laws of the church at all times. Recently, in the society, religious people still go about their own business and whatever makes them happy. Unlike the diehard days where religious leaders had the power to sanction people who don't abide by the rules.
Today, the world is more political, not every member of a religion would abstain from gambling. And that's where their power lies, if politicians have prove that these religious men can control 80% of Catholics not to vote unless gambling is banned, then players over there can shiver at the cracking sound of this news.