Philippines – The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Ad Standards Council (ASC) are set to sign a Memorandum of Agreement to regulate online gambling platforms’ advertisements. PAGCOR has begun these efforts, with its recent memorandum ordering the takedown of outdoor ads on online gambling.
PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco revealed in an interview with DZMM on July 8 that the corporation has been working with the ASC on an agreement aiming to lessen billboards spotlighting online gambling. Size regulations will be implemented for the said platforms.
While regulations are already in place, Tengco explains that those will be under review to make way for stricter ones. This intends to target platforms operating illegally, which follow no regulations and prey on even minors.
However, licensed operators will also be affected by the new regulations to address gambling addiction among Filipinos. He revealed in the interview that licensees will not be allowed to advertise during peak viewership periods.
PAGCOR has ordered licensees to remove gambling-related outdoor advertisements until August 15. The takedown directive includes static and digital materials on billboards, vehicles, and other out-of-home advertisements.
The memorandum states that ad replacements need to promote responsible gaming, requiring PAGCOR approval.
Tengco nonetheless remained firm on his stand that “regulation is the key and the answer, not a total ban.”
Multiple resolutions have been filed in Congress, seeking a probe into online gambling as illegal operators remain prevalent in the country.
