PAGCOR and ASC Unite to Bolster Oversight of Gambling Ads in the Philippines

Details of the New Legislation Initiative

In accordance with the provisions outlined in a MoU signed earlier this July, all RMG banners and similar materials must now undergo review and obtain approval from the Council.

This measure applies to advertisements placed via the following channels:

• TV;
• radio;
• the Internet;
• outdoors.

Business marketing content can only be published after receiving ASC's endorsement. The authority's list of mandatory controls already covers materials promoting alcoholic beverages, specific medications, and dietary supplements.

PAGCOR’s Chairman and CEO mentioned that about a year ago, the organisation and its potential partners started preliminary discussions regarding this initiative. Now, Alejandro Tengco’s team has officially inked the contract and has promptly begun executing all the terms outlined in the MoU.

Golda Roldan, the ASC’s Chairwoman, voiced backing for the Philippine regulator’s commitment to adopting more responsible advertising practices. She highlighted that gambling is a niche that demands greater sensitivity and caution in communication.

PAGCOR’s Measures

On July 7th, the organisation requested the removal of all gaming ads from public transport, including:

• buses;
• trains;
• taxis.

Licence holders and all involved parties are obliged to remove the advertising materials by August 15th.

Mr Tengco thinks that in the future, only content promoting responsible entertainment formats should be permitted. He considers this initiative a crucial measure to safeguard vulnerable social groups, particularly the youth.