Philippine Authorities Team Up to Regulate Gambling Advertising and Encourage Responsible Practices
In a significant move to enhance the integrity of gambling advertising, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is joining forces with the Ad Standards Council (ASC). Together, they will implement a new initiative aimed at promoting responsible gambling behavior among the public.
During a signing ceremony held at PAGCOR headquarters, CEO Alejandro Tengco and ASC Chairwoman Golda Roldan formalized their partnership through a memorandum of understanding. This agreement marks a pivotal step in establishing guidelines for gambling-related ads.
Gambling Ads Now Subject to Stringent Oversight
With this new collaboration, ads related to gambling are being added to ASC’s “must-screen” list, a category that has historically included advertisements for alcohol, non-prescription medications, food supplements, and other sensitive products. This classification intends to ensure that all promotional materials undergo thorough evaluation before they reach the public.
Tengco highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “We initiated discussions nearly a year ago, and today we are officially launching our commitments outlined in this agreement.” He emphasized the necessity of regulatory measures to prevent the dissemination of misleading information and safeguard vulnerable populations.
Enhanced Approval Process for Gambling Advertisements
Under this newfound partnership, all branded gambling advertisements—spanning television, radio, online platforms, and outdoor spaces—will undergo scrutiny by the ASC prior to their release. As reported by the Philippine News Agency, this stricter oversight aims to mitigate the risks associated with gambling promotions, particularly for those who might be more susceptible to its influence.
Roldan echoed this sentiment, affirming, “We are united with PAGCOR in our mission to protect the Filipino populace, especially when it comes to industries like gambling, where messaging must be handled with the utmost care.”
Removal of Ads from Public Transport
In addition to this agreement, PAGCOR has taken further action by mandating the removal of all gambling-related advertisements from public transportation systems, including buses, taxis, and trains. Tengco remarked, “Controlling the proliferation of gambling ads is vital to shielding at-risk groups, particularly the youth.” He indicated that these efforts will focus exclusively on promoting responsible gaming messages.
To facilitate this transition, PAGCOR has set a deadline of August 15 for all licensees and stakeholders to pull down any gambling advertisements from public spaces.
This partnership between PAGCOR and the ASC reflects a proactive approach to gambling regulation, prioritizing public welfare and the need for responsible messaging in advertising.