Manila: The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) said Wednesday it is implementing tighter know-your-customer (KYC) rules, stricter advertising controls, and expanded responsible gaming measures as the Senate scrutinized the social and financial risks posed by online gambling.
According to Philippines News Agency, Pagcor chairperson Alejandro Tengco, appearing before the Senate Committee on Games and Amusement hearing, informed the panel that gambling advertisements are already banned during primetime television and radio hours and that regulators are studying the feasibility of a full-day ban. Tengco mentioned ongoing discussions with industry stakeholders about potentially extending the ban to all broadcast hours.
Pagcor Electronic Gaming Licensing Department officer in charge Jessa Mariz Fernandez stated that the regulator has closed gaps that previously allowed players to access platforms before identity checks were completed. The updated KYC process now requires registrants to submit their name, contact details, a valid government-issued ID, and a real-time selfie with the ID to address concerns about the use of borrowed or fake identities.
On advertising, Pagcor is finalizing implementing rules with the Ads Standards Council to cover gambling promotions across social media and other digital platforms. Illegal advertisements are being monitored and reported for blocking to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center and the National Telecommunications Commission.
Fernandez noted that Pagcor is strengthening its Responsible Gaming Practice in the first quarter of 2026 by including localized translations of the tagline 'Gambling is addictive, know when to stop,' to enhance public awareness. Measures include online self-exclusion tools on gaming platforms, accreditation of treatment and rehabilitation centers for problem gamblers, stricter KYC enforcement, and the removal of gambling-related billboards and outdoor advertisements.
Pagcor is also preparing a 24/7 helpline offering confidential counseling and support to problem gamblers and their families, and developing a guarantee application with a government bank to ensure consumers transact only with licensed platforms.
In his opening statement, Committee chair Senator Erwin Tulfo emphasized that the inquiry is conducted in aid of legislation due to concerns that weak enforcement exposes minors, enables identity misuse, and creates vulnerabilities for money laundering. He asserted that gambling regulation is now a matter of consumer protection, digital safety, and protection of the financial system.
