PAGCOR self-exclusion and problem gambling help in the Philippines

If gambling is hurting your money, work or relationships, you do not have to handle it alone. You must be 21+ to gamble in the Philippines, and stopping is always a valid choice.

National Problem Gambling Helpline

PAGCOR launched the National Problem Gambling Helpline on 26 May 2026, run with the non-government group Seagulls Flock Organization Inc. Reports describe a 24-hour, confidential service staffed by para-counsellors and mental health professionals, offering psychological first aid, guidance, triage and referrals to longer-term treatment. It is meant for people with gambling problems and their families.

PAGCOR's own launch announcement gives the number as 02-8248-9568, a 24/7 line with para-counsellors based at the PAGCOR Corporate Office in Pasay City, offering confidential counselling, psychological support and referrals to treatment. The same number is reported by AGBrief and SoloAzar. Numbers can change, so check pagcor.ph if a call does not connect. If you are in immediate danger, contact local emergency services.

PAGCOR self-exclusion: how to apply

PAGCOR's exclusion page (read 27 Oct 2026) describes two routes. The exclusion is implemented "across all sites, licensed and operated by PAGCOR".

Self-exclusion (for yourself)

• Periods: 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. The first six months are irrevocable, and the order lifts automatically when the period ends.
• Send: the completed self-exclusion application form (downloadable from the page), a photocopy of a government-issued photo ID, and two coloured 2x2 photos taken within the last six months (full face, no hat, glasses or mask).
• If you submit by someone else or remotely, PAGCOR asks for a selfie or video call to confirm.

Family exclusion (for a spouse, child or parent)

• Eligible applicants: the respondent's spouse, child or parent. Periods: 6 months, 1 year or 3 years.
• Send: the family exclusion form, copies of the respondent's ID and the applicant's government or school ID, two 2x2 photos of the respondent, and a birth certificate (parent or child applicant, 18 or older) or marriage certificate (spouse).

How to submit: by the email address shown on the page, or at the drop box at the MET Live Building, Central Business Park 1-A, Macapagal Blvd. corner EDSA Extension, Pasay City. The page does not state a processing time or mention an online portal, though PAGCOR Guarantee links to a self-exclusion site (osea.pagcor.ph) that we could not open. Questions: call 02-8248-9568.

Per a Focus Gaming News report (13 Oct 2026), PAGCOR reported 33,800 active exclusions as of 30 September 2026.

Practical steps that help

• Set deposit and time limits before you play, and use the operator's own cool-off and limit tools.
• Remove saved cards and wallet links, and tell someone you trust.
• Never gamble money needed for food, rent, bills or debts, and never chase losses.

More on warning signs: responsible gambling. To make sure a site is authorised before you ever deposit, see how to check a PAGCOR licence.