Pagcor orders online gambling ads replaced with helpline information

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) has ordered all online gaming operators and relevant stakeholders to replace their existing responsible gaming advertisements with materials promoting the recently launched 24/7 National Problem Gambling Helpline (NPGH).

In a statement on Wednesday, Pagcor directed all licensees, suppliers, gaming system administrators, gaming venue operators, and other concerned entities to replace all gaming-related advertisements with the NPGH advertising template, citing a June 9 memorandum issued by its Gaming Licensing and Development Department (GLDD).

According to Pagcor Chair and CEO Alejandro Tengco, the directive covers billboards, wallscapes, digital displays, and other out-of-home (OOH) advertising platforms currently carrying responsible gaming messages.

Article continues after this advertisement

“Responsible gaming goes beyond awareness. It also means ensuring that help is readily available to those who need it most,” he said.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

“By promoting the NPGH that we launched recently, we can offer professional support for individuals and families affected by gambling-related harm. This initiative reflects Pagcor’s commitment to foster a safer and more responsible gaming environment for all,” he added.

READ: Pagcor launches 24/7 gambling problem helpline

For example, a Pagcor online gaming licensee has a small text on the bottom of its ad that reads: “Play for fun, play responsibly. Gaming is not an accepted way of livelihood and does not solve financial problems.”

These will be replaced by Pagcor’s template ad, with a stronger message saying: “Gambling can be addictive. Know when to stop.”

Article continues after this advertisement

“Want to quit? Somebody is ready to listen,” another text of the template ad read, along with the contact information for the NPGH.

Following Pagcor’s template, a small logo of the online gaming brand can only be placed at the bottom right of the ad.

Article continues after this advertisement

According to Tengco, all ad replacements must be completed on or before July 15, and should remain in place for two months or until Sept. 15.

Tengco said the NPGH advertisements will not require approval from the Ad Standards Council (ASC), although an Exemption Certificate will be issued by the council.

All concerned parties are also required to submit a status report on the ad replacement using the prescribed reporting template.

The accomplishment report must be submitted to the GLDD on or before July 16.

Failure to comply will be subject to regulatory sanctions and other penalties that may be imposed by the ASC.

READ: Pagcor orders removal of e-gambling billboard ads, to limit TV promos

Launched on May 26 by Pagcor, in partnership with nonprofit Seagulls Flock Organization Inc., the NPGH helpline serves as a 24/7 support platform for individuals struggling with gambling-related issues.

Callers may reach the NPGH at (02) 8248-9568 to directly connect them to trained counselors to provide confidential support and counseling.

There are currently 12 para-counselors who work in three shifts per day at the NPGH office, located within Pagcor Corporate Office in Pasay City.

The latest directive forms part of Pagcor’s broader responsible gaming initiatives.

In July last year, the agency ordered the immediate removal of all billboards and other OOH gambling advertisements as part of tighter regulations on gambling-related promotions in public spaces.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.

Gambling-related TV ads are also prohibited from being aired during prime time. /mcm