Introduction to Online Betting in the Philippines

The online betting industry in the Philippines has taken a significant step towards promoting responsible gaming and combating illegal online gambling. Nineteen licensed gaming firms, operating under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR), have formed an alliance known as the PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines. This alliance aims to ensure that online gaming is conducted in a safe, responsible, and fair manner.

Members of the PlaySafe Alliance

The founding members of the PlaySafe Alliance include:

• DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, GameZone)
• World Platinum Technologies Inc. (KingPH, LuckyPH, QueenPH)
• Trojans Well Entertainment Corp. (Bet88)
• Gavin Ventures Inc. (OKBet)
• Playmate Leisure Solutions Corp. (PlayTime)
• Stotsenberg Leisure Park & Hotel Corp. (Casino Plus, Perya Plus)
• Jade Entertainment and Gaming Technologies Inc. (Jade Sportsbet)
• Meta Interactive Software Solutions Inc. (123Go)
• Enigma Software Solutions Inc. (Patokbet)

Other firms that have joined the alliance include Arden Consult, GoTech Entertainment Inc. (Filbet), IGO Digital High Technology Inc. (iGO, PremyoFun), NEMO Interactive Group Corporation (Fairplay, Arionplay), Nextstage Entertainment Inc. (ANIBET), RAC Phil Corp. (LakiWin), Silver Goose 8 International Inc. (SG8), Skyline Nexus Corporation (Juan365), Webzoid System Solutions Corporation (Go Play Asia), and Xn Solutions Inc. (MegaPerya).

Challenges Facing the Online Gaming Sector

The launch of the PlaySafe Alliance comes at a time when the online gaming sector in the Philippines is facing intense scrutiny from lawmakers, regulators, and industry leaders. There have been calls for either a total ban or strict regulation of online gambling due to its perceived negative impact on Filipinos, particularly those who have become addicted to it.

Regulatory Measures

PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco has announced that the regulator has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ad Standards Council (ASC) to strengthen the monitoring of gambling-related advertisements across all platforms. Furthermore, PAGCOR has ordered the removal of all gambling ads in public spaces and primetime TV by August 15 this year. The Malacañang has suggested that proposals to ban online gambling should be studied thoroughly to understand their potential impacts on the country.

Combatting Illegal Online Gambling

Mike Defensor, the appointed spokesperson of the industry association and President of World Platinum Technologies Inc., emphasized that the real enemy is the illegal online gambling market, which operates without licenses, controls, or regulation. This illegal market poses significant risks, including the potential for minors to gamble, tax evasion, and non-compliance with regulatory standards. Defensor stressed that approximately 70% of the online gambling market is illegal, while only 30% is legal and compliant with regulations, paying taxes to the government.

Objectives of the PlaySafe Alliance

The PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines will focus on several key areas, including:

• Collaborating with regulators to enhance industry oversight and compliance
• Strengthening responsible gaming measures through robust KYC processes, age verification, and self-exclusion programs
• Combating illegal gambling by launching initiatives to deter illegal and unlicensed operators
• Consumer education through public awareness and health campaigns on safer gambling and the risks of playing on unregulated platforms
• Providing support for gambling harm and addiction through nationwide research, education, prevention, and treatment programs, including a 24/7 National Gambling Helpline

Future Plans

The alliance is not about competition but about collaboration, aiming to ensure that online gambling in the Philippines is more secure, transparent, and beneficial to both players and the nation. The PlaySafe Alliance will soon elect its officers and be organized into strategic committees to work on focus areas such as player protection, advertising and marketing governance, financial risk control, and combating illegal gambling. The group also plans to onboard an independent advisory panel consisting of local and international experts to advise on responsible gaming regulation, public health, financial technology, and consumer advocacy topics.

Conclusion

The formation of the PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines represents a significant step towards promoting responsible gaming and combating illegal online gambling in the country. By working together, licensed gaming firms can help create a safer, more transparent, and regulated online gaming environment that benefits both players and the nation. Through their efforts, the PlaySafe Alliance aims to address the challenges facing the online gaming sector, protect consumers, and contribute to the overall well-being of society.