Proposed Caps on Spending and Playtime
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has unveiled a draft circular proposing strict controls on online gambling payments. If implemented, players could face a daily limit on how much money they can transfer to gambling sites and a maximum six-hour daily window for such transactions. Additionally, a 24-hour cooling-off period would apply after heavy usage.
The draft rules aim to curb excessive gambling and financial harm. BSP proposes that transfers to online gaming platforms “shall be subject to a daily limit which should not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the average daily balance of the eligible owner’s transaction account.” Payment service providers (PSPs) must reject any transfers that exceed this limit.
Approval and Oversight for Payment Providers
Moreover, all PSPs and operators of payment systems wanting to handle online gambling payments must secure prior approval from the BSP. To qualify, they must meet strict requirements, including strong anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) systems.
“The Bangko Sentral shall assess the qualifications of applying PSPs and OPSs,” BSP explained. Non-compliance could result in denial, suspension, or revocation of approval.
Further, the draft prohibits PSPs from providing direct links to gambling websites or any functions that redirect users to online gaming platforms.
Industry Feedback and Timeline
Local news outlet the Inquirer reported that BSP is currently consulting with stakeholders, with feedback open until 25 July. BSP emphasized:
“It is imperative to ensure that digital payment services of payment service providers are not misused for activities that are socially harmful and detrimental to financial health.”
The proposed regulations also introduce tighter know-your-customer (KYC) measures to uphold legal restrictions on online gambling access.
Industry Reactions and Ongoing Debate
These proposals arrive amid broader calls from lawmakers to tighten control over the Philippines’ booming eGames sector. Suggested measures include tougher KYC rules, stricter advertising regulations, a minimum top-up threshold of PHP10,000 (US$177), and banning popular e-wallets like GCash and Maya from working with gambling operators.
However, licensed online gaming operators and back-end service providers have expressed mixed feelings. While many support reasonable regulations, they oppose calls for an outright ban on online gaming.
In a joint statement, Manila’s integrated resorts—Newport World Resorts, Okada Manila, and Solaire Resort—highlighted their commitment to compliance. They stated:
“We already operate under strict guidelines outlined by PAGCOR and prioritize ethical business practices and responsible gaming.”
