The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has directed all licensed gambling operators and related entities to remove all gambling billboards and out-of-home (OOH) advertisements by August 15. This initiative aims to regulate gambling promotions and reduce excessive public marketing.

**Stricter regulations and the need for transparency:**

On July 11, PAGCOR stated that the removal of gambling advertisements, including those on trains, buses, jeepneys, and taxis, must be completed within the next month. A memorandum from July 7 requires operators, system administrators, suppliers, and gaming venue operators to comply.

PAGCOR clarified that only responsible gaming campaign ads, subject to the Commission’s approval, will be allowed. Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR’s Chairman and CEO, emphasized this action is meant to protect vulnerable groups, particularly the youth, from gambling addiction.

This crackdown responds to concerns from religious groups, lawmakers, and public health advocates about the normalization of gambling in the Philippines. Critics argue that widespread gambling ads contribute to rising addiction and financial hardship, especially among young people.

Tengco highlighted that while PAGCOR regulates the gaming industry and generates national revenue, it is committed to preventing a culture of gambling addiction. “Regulating excessive and pervasive gambling advertisements is a critical step in protecting vulnerable sectors of society, especially the youth,” Tengco stated, as reported by the Philippine News Agency.

The new policy also requires stakeholders to submit an inventory of their existing gambling advertisements by July 16, detailing size, material, location, rental contract expiration, and Ad Standards Council (ASC) permit numbers. Tengco noted that failing to comply or replacing removed advertisements with new ones would result in penalties.

**Ongoing efforts to tackle online gambling advertising:**

While focusing on physical gambling ads, PAGCOR also aims to strengthen regulations on online gambling advertising. PAGCOR plans to formalize a partnership with the Ad Standards Council (ASC) to establish comprehensive guidelines for gambling ads across TV, billboards, and digital platforms. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) will be signed on July 16 to facilitate this.

Further regulations are being developed to limit gambling ads on platforms like e-wallets and ride-hailing apps. PAGCOR is also monitoring digital payment systems and their role in online gambling.

PAGCOR’s action has received support from lawmakers, including Senator JV Ejercito, a proponent of stricter online gambling regulation. He called the decision a “victory” for public welfare, particularly for protecting young people from gambling’s negative effects.

“This is an important step to protect the public, especially the youth, against the normalization and acceptance of gambling in our communities,” Ejercito said, expressing hope that this move would lead to tighter online gambling regulations.

PAGCOR’s regulatory actions are part of ongoing discussions about the future of online gambling in the Philippines. Legislative proposals include stricter regulations, a 10% tax on online gambling, e-wallet use restrictions, and higher minimum betting limits. However, some advocate for a complete online gambling ban, a stance PAGCOR believes won’t effectively address illegal gambling operators.

• SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
• Source: SCCGManagement.com