Philippine Gaming Sector Adopts Stronger Safeguards

PAGCOR has raised the bar on responsible gaming as the digital market in the Philippines expands at a rapid pace. Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco outlined a series of strengthened safeguards during G2E Asia @ the Philippines 2025 in Pasay City, noting that financial controls and player-protection features are now being pushed across the industry.

Good to Know

• E-wallets and certain payment channels are now delinked for stronger integrity
• Operators must add responsible gaming tools, including limits and self-exclusion
• PAGCOR banned credit cards and crypto for betting to reduce harmful behavior

Mr. Tengco said the shift toward tighter payment rules has already changed operator behavior and player activity, which softened revenues late in the third quarter. He added that such outcomes were expected as PAGCOR rolls out reforms to improve traceability, boost anti-money laundering defenses, and constrain illicit activity.

He said:

“In recent months, most of you are aware that our industry has confronted severe headwinds. These reforms inevitably have short-term impacts that are necessary because we cannot build a modern digital gaming ecosystem on foundations that do not fully meet global integrity and compliance standards.”

Expanded responsible gaming measures

The stricter payment system forms only one part of PAGCOR’s broader framework introduced throughout the year. Operators now need to integrate self-exclusion options, time and betting limits, and other tools designed to help players manage wagering in a healthier way.

PAGCOR also banned credit cards and cryptocurrencies for betting. Mr. Tengco said the decision came from concerns over “the risks of over-borrowing and impulsive behavior.”

Support networks are growing as well. PAGCOR partnered with foundations such as the Seagulls Flock Organization to set up a 24-hour helpline, train Responsible Gaming Ambassadors, and accredit rehabilitation centers to give vulnerable players immediate access to care.

New rules for advertising

Advertising reforms have advanced since PAGCOR worked with the Ad Standards Council last July. Gambling ads have been removed from public spaces, and stricter rules now guide how marketing content is presented. The aim is to keep messaging truthful and socially responsible while reducing exposure among minors and high-risk groups.

Mr. Tengco said:

“These efforts reflect PAGCOR’s long-term goal of cultivating a more secure, transparent, and internationally aligned gaming environment. The future of gaming will demand regulatory agility, industry cooperation, and a shared commitment to integrity, and players should always feel that their safety and well-being remain at the core of our policies.”

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