PAGCOR Enhances Responsible Gaming Safeguards Amid Digital Market Growth

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has significantly intensified its responsible gaming framework in response to the country’s rapidly expanding digital gaming landscape, Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco announced during G2E Asia @ the Philippines 2025 in Pasay City.

Speaking before industry leaders, Mr. Tengco emphasized that the regulator’s newly implemented financial safeguards — including the delinking of e-wallets and several payment channels — are crucial to reinforcing integrity and protecting players across the booming online gaming segment.

Tighter Payment Controls Bring Short-Term Revenue Impact

Mr. Tengco noted that the transition to stricter payment protocols has required both operators and players to recalibrate their systems and habits, leading to softer revenues in the latter part of the third quarter.

However, he stressed that such measures are vital for improving transaction traceability, bolstering anti-money laundering defenses, and mitigating illicit financial activity.

“In recent months, most of you are aware that our industry has confronted severe headwinds,” he said. “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.”

Strengthened Player Protections and Responsible Gaming Tools

According to Mr. Tengco, the payment reforms form part of a broader responsible gaming strategy PAGCOR has been developing throughout the year.

Licensed operators are now required to integrate self-exclusion options, betting limits, and additional player-protection tools to help users manage their gaming behavior more sustainably.

PAGCOR has also prohibited the use of credit cards and cryptocurrencies for betting — a decision based on what Mr. Tengco described as the risks of “over-borrowing and impulsive behavior” associated with these payment instruments.

Expanded Support Systems and Industry Partnerships

To ensure immediate access to professional support, PAGCOR is expanding its partnerships with organizations such as the Seagulls Flock Organization, enabling the establishment of a 24/7 helpline, the training of Responsible Gaming Ambassadors, and the accreditation of rehabilitation centers.

On the advertising front, PAGCOR implemented sweeping reforms after partnering with the Ad Standards Council in July. The initiative resulted in the removal of gambling advertisements from public spaces, alongside stricter guidelines to ensure marketing remains truthful and socially responsible.

“These efforts reflect PAGCOR’s long-term goal of cultivating a more secure, transparent, and internationally aligned gaming environment,” Mr. Tengco said. “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.”

Industry Gathers in Manila to Discuss Asia’s Evolving Gaming Landscape

G2E Asia @ the Philippines, held at Newport World Resorts, convened regulators, operators, and technology innovators from across the region. This year’s discussions centered on emerging market trends, shifting consumer expectations, and the regional regulatory frameworks shaping the future of Asian gaming.

PAGCOR’s strengthened responsible gaming initiatives were among the most closely watched developments, signaling the Philippines’ commitment to balancing sectoral growth with robust player protection and international compliance.