PAGCOR Sets August 15 Deadline for Billboard Removal
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has ordered licensed online gambling operators and service providers to remove all out-of-home (OOH) advertising by August 15. This marks PAGCOR’s first significant action to respond to growing criticism over aggressive electronic gambling promotions.
Executives Jeremy Luglug and Ma. Vina Claudette Oca signed a memorandum instructing “all licensees, suppliers, and electronic gaming administrators and providers” to dismantle outdoor gambling ads.
Public Pressure Drives Stricter Rules
Religious groups and lawmakers have condemned online gambling for fueling addiction and financial distress, especially among vulnerable communities. In response, PAGCOR is drafting new advertising rules to tighten oversight.
The upcoming regulations will restrict the timing and placement of physical and broadcast ads. For example, operators cannot place gambling ads near churches, schools, or hospitals, nor air commercials during prime-time television slots.
PAGCOR Partners with Ad Standards Council
PAGCOR plans to collaborate with the Ad Standards Council (ASC) to enforce these rules consistently. They will sign a memorandum of understanding on July 16. The ASC will help screen and monitor gambling-related ads across media channels.
Financial Industry Steps Up
Meanwhile, the Fintech Alliance Philippines, representing digital payment and e-wallet providers, has promised stronger measures to limit excessive online gambling. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is also working on new policy guidelines to tackle the issue.
