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GMA Network
7 days ago
- Business
- GMA Network
Licensed online gaming firms form PlaySafe alliance amid scrutiny
Nineteen licensed gaming firms announced the formation of PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines, describing their group as 'a unified industry association committed to responsible gaming, regulatory compliance, consumer protection, and combating illegal gambling.' Online betting operators, licensed under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR), have formed an alliance to combat illegal online gambling as the sector faces scrutiny from policymakers. Nineteen licensed gaming firms announced the formation of PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines, describing their group as 'a unified industry association committed to responsible gaming, regulatory compliance, consumer protection, and combating illegal gambling.' Members of the alliance's interim council include the following: DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, GameZone) World Platinum Technologies Inc. (KingPH, LuckyPH, QueenPH) Trojans Well Entertainment Corp. (Bet88) Gavin Ventures Inc. (OKBet) Playmate Leisure Solutions Corp. (PlayTime) Stotsenberg Leisure Park & Hotel Corp. (Casino Plus, Perya Plus) Jade Entertainment and Gaming Technologies Inc. (Jade Sportsbet) Meta Interactive Software Solutions Inc. (123Go) Enigma Software Solutions Inc. (Patokbet) Other firms that have signed membership in the alliance include: Arden Consult GoTech Entertainment Inc. (Filbet) IGO Digital High Technology Inc. (iGO, PremyoFun) NEMO Interactive Group Corporation (Fairplay, Arionplay) Nextstage Entertainment Inc. (ANIBET) RAC Phil Corp. (LakiWin) Silver Goose 8 International Inc. (SG8) Skyline Nexus Corporation (Juan365) Webzoid System Solutions Corporation (Go Play Asia) Xn Solutions Inc. (MegaPerya) The launch of the industry association came as the local online gambling sector faces scrutiny with lawmakers, regulators, and industry leaders.. Several other lawmakers have also called for either the total ban or strict regulation of online gambling, citing its negative impact on Filipinos who have become addicted to it. PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco earlier noted that the gaming industry regulator recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ad Standards Council (ASC) to strengthen the monitoring of gambling-related advertisements across all platforms. It also recently ordered the takedown of all gambling ads in public spaces and primetime TV by August 15 this year. Malacañang, on the other hand, said proposals to ban online gambling should be studied thoroughly, including their possible impacts on the country. 'Ang tunay na kalaban sa usapin ng online gambling ay ang ilegal na market. Walang lisensya, walang kontrol—puwedeng maglaro ang menor de edad, walang bayad na buwis, at hindi sumusunod sa mga patakaran. Sa halip na protektado, nalalagay sa panganib ang publiko,' said Mike Defensor, appointed spokesperson of the industry association and President of World Platinum Technologies Inc. 'Sa kasalukuyan, tinatayang 70% ng online gambling market ay ilegal, habang 30% lamang ang legal na sumusunod sa regulasyon at nagbabayad ng buwis sa gobyerno. Kaya mahalaga ang mahigpit na regulasyon at pagtutok sa mga ligal na operator upang matiyak ang ligtas, responsable, at makatarungang paglalaro para sa lahat,' said Defensor. The PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines said it will focus on the following: Collaborating with Regulators – Partnering with PAGCOR to enhance industry oversight and compliance, especially around existing marketing and advertising practices. Strengthening Responsible Gaming Measures – Implementing robust KYC (Know-Your-Customer) processes, age verification, and self-exclusion programs. Combating Illegal Gambling – Launching initiatives to help deter illegal and unlicensed operators. Consumer Education – Launching public awareness and health campaigns on safer gambling and the risks of playing on unregulated platforms. Gambling Harm & Addiction Support – Investing in nationwide research, education, prevention & treatment (REPT) programs for online gambling, including a 24/7 National Gambling Helpline. 'This alliance is not about competition—it's about collaboration,' said Eusebio Tanco, founding member of PlaySafe Alliance and Chairman of DigiPlus Interactive Corp. 'By working as one, we can ensure that online gambling in the Philippines will be more secure, transparent, and beneficial to both players and the nation,' said Tanco. The PlaySafe Alliance said it will soon elect its officers and thereafter be organized into various 'strategic committees' to work on 'focus areas, including but not limited to Player Protection, Advertising & Marketing Governance, Financial Risk Control, and Combating Illegal Gambling.' The group also announced plans to onboard an independent advisory panel consisting of local and international experts to advise on responsible gaming regulation, public health, financial technology, and consumer advocacy topics. –NB, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
29-07-2025
- Business
- GMA Network
PH gaming industry grows 26% to P214.75B in H1 2025 — PAGCOR
The country's gaming industry saw a double-digit growth in terms of total revenues, reaching over P200 billion in the first half of 2025, thanks to continued popularity of online or digital betting among Filipinos. Data released by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) showed the sector's gross gaming revenues (GGR) stood at P214.75 billion from January to June 2025, up 26% from P171 billion year-on-year. This as the electronic gaming sector — composed of e-games, e-bingo, and bingo grantees – continued to outpace traditional or brick-and-mortar gaming with P114.83 billion in gross revenues or 53.47% of total GGR. Meanwhile, licensed casinos — comprised of integrated resorts and brick-and-mortar casinos in Metro Manila, Clark, Cebu, La Union and Rizal — accounted for 43.47% or P93.36 billion of the industry's GGR. PAGCOR-operated casinos, moreover, contributed the remaining 3.06% or P6.56 billion to the overall industry performance. 'PAGCOR recognizes the earning potential of the e-games sector, but as the country's gaming regulator, our foremost responsibility is to ensure that growth comes with accountability,' said PAGCOR chairman Alejandro Tengco. 'Our role goes beyond revenue generation; and as partners of the government in nation-building, we are committed to always strike a balance between enabling industry expansion and ensuring it aligns with responsible gaming standards,' added Tengco. The PAGCOR chief noted that the gaming industry regulator recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ad Standards Council (ASC) to strengthen the monitoring of gambling-related advertisements across all platforms. It also recently ordered the takedown of all gambling ads in public spaces and primetime TV by August 15 this year. 'These efforts are part of our broader mission to ensure that online gambling is not only well-regulated but also aligned with public interest,' said Tengco. — BAP, GMA Integrated News
Arabian Post
14-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Casino Giants Renew Vow to Uphold Responsible Play
Three of the largest integrated resort‑casino operators in the Philippines have reiterated their commitment to legal compliance and responsible gaming, asserting that their online offerings remain firmly regulated under national laws. Their statement arrives amid heightened scrutiny of online gambling platforms by the national government, underlining the intensifying policy debate over the sector's societal impact. At the heart of the declaration are Solaire Resort, Newport World Resorts and Okada Manila. In coordinated announcements issued on Sunday, the operators emphasised that their online platforms are fully licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation and employ advanced technologies—such as geo‑fencing and IP filtering—to ensure access is restricted to users within authorised zones. Officials at the casinos highlighted rigorous Know‑Your‑Customer protocols, including mandatory verification within 72 hours and stringent age‑gating mechanisms. The measures also extend to anti‑money‑laundering compliance, transparent gaming systems, and annual audits. Responsible‑gaming tools now form integral parts of platforms, enabling player self‑exclusion, deposit caps and time limits. ADVERTISEMENT While presenting their case, the operators referenced ongoing concerns raised by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. regarding the welfare implications of online gambling, particularly its effects on vulnerable families. The Palace has reportedly weighed tighter regulation measures, including taxation reforms and curbs on influencer marketing for gambling. PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco has voiced strong opposition to any outright ban, warning that it would drive users toward illegal offshore platforms—where no regulation, taxation or consumer protections exist. He pointed out that in 2024, PAGCOR collected PHP 50 billion in licensing and fees, predominantly from online operations. A ban, he cautioned, could eliminate a similar scale of government revenue, alongside risking thousands of jobs across the hospitality and service sectors. Despite the economic rationale, critics remain vocal. Interior Assistant Secretary Florencio Valeriano argued that 'no financial gain justifies the social toll of gambling, especially among the poor,' and cautioned that history has shown banning formal platforms only drives the industry underground. Legal and tech experts have urged a balanced approach. In a detailed memo, attorney and consultant Tonet Quiogue urged policymakers to direct enforcement efforts at illicit operators rather than penalising regulated platforms. She warned that a blanket prohibition would severely undermine the state's capacity to monitor and tax the sector effectively. As part of its regulatory response, PAGCOR recently mandated the removal of outdoor advertising for gambling services, including billboards and in‑transit ads on public vehicles. The directive, issued on 7 July, sets a compliance deadline of 15 August and requires an audit of existing ads by 16 July. Only responsible‑gaming campaigns approved by PAGCOR may remain visible thereafter. The casino operators reaffirmed that their promotional content and marketing materials undergo review by PAGCOR and the Advertising Standards Council, underscoring their broader compliance posture. In the wake of this joint public statement, Cracow Manila, the city of Manila's municipal regulators and local stakeholders, are expected to weigh in on the unfolding debate, as are lawmakers in Congress assessing policy interventions ranging from taxation adjustments to tighter influencer marketing controls.
Bangkok Post
11-07-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Philippines orders removal of gambling ads amid addiction fears
The Philippines' gaming regulator has ordered the immediate dismantling of all gambling billboards and advertisements across the country amid worries over a growing betting addiction in the Southeast Asian nation. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation or Pagcor has given licensees, suppliers and gaming venue operators until Aug 15 to remove ad materials, including those displayed on public transport vehicles, according to a statement from the agency on Friday. 'Regulating excessive and pervasive gambling advertisements is a critical step in protecting vulnerable sectors of society, especially the youth,' Pagcor Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro Tengco said. While the gaming agency is mandated to generate state revenue, 'we do not want to encourage a culture of gambling addiction,' he said. The move comes as the gaming industry is under increasing scrutiny following an unprecedented boom in online gambling that critics fear could lead to social problems. In Thailand, the government withdrew a bill to legalise casinos following mounting public opposition. Revenue from online gaming surpassed that from integrated resort casinos this year for the first time in the Philippines, Asia's second-largest gambling hub after Macau. Calls have mounted in Congress to curb online gambling with one lawmaker seeking tighter regulation of the sector. The central bank is also considering limits to gaming access via digital platforms.
The Star
11-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Philippines orders removal of gambling ads amid addiction fears
Giant billboard ads like this one on a stretch of Edsa in Quezon City must be taken down by Aug 15, according to an order from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp, in its first major move in response to growing concerns over the rise of online gambling. - PDI MANILA: The Philippines' gaming regulator has ordered the immediate dismantling of all gambling billboards and advertisements across the country amid worries over a growing betting addiction in the South-East Asian nation. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation or Pagcor has given licencees, suppliers and gaming venue operators until Aug. 15 to remove ad materials, including those displayed on public transport vehicles, according to a statement from the agency on Friday. "Regulating excessive and pervasive gambling advertisements is a critical step in protecting vulnerable sectors of society, especially the youth,' Pagcor chairman and chief executive officer Alejandro Tengco said. While the gaming agency is mandated to generate state revenue, "we do not want to encourage a culture of gambling addiction,' he said. The move comes as the gaming industry is under increasing scrutiny following an unprecedented boom in online gambling that critics fear could lead to social problems. In Thailand, the government withdrew a bill to legalise casinos following mounting public opposition. Revenue from online gaming surpassed those from integrated resort casinos this year for the first time in the Philippines, Asia's second-largest gambling hub after Macau. Calls have mounted in Congress to curb online gambling with one lawmaker seeking tighter regulation of the sector. The central bank is also considering limits to gaming access via digital platforms. - Bloomberg
