PAGCOR orders operators to promote the 24/7 problem gambling helpline in out-of-home ads

Source: AGBrief, 17 June 2026. Updated 27 October 2026.

What was ordered

According to AGBrief, PAGCOR's Gaming Licensing and Development Department issued a memorandum on 9 June 2026:

• Operators must replace existing responsible gaming ads with materials promoting the 24/7 National Problem Gambling Helpline (NPGH), using PAGCOR's template.
• It covers licensees, suppliers, gaming system administrators, gaming venue operators and other concerned entities, and out-of-home formats such as billboards, wallscapes and digital displays.
• Replacements were due by 15 July 2026; the ads remain in place until 15 September 2026; a status report was due on 16 July 2026.
• NPGH ads do not need Ad Standards Council approval, but the ASC issues an exemption certificate. Non-compliance faces regulatory sanctions.

PAGCOR chairman Alejandro Tengco was quoted: "Responsible gaming goes beyond awareness."

The helpline

The National Problem Gambling Helpline is 02-8248-9568, 24/7 and confidential, launched on 26 May 2026 with Seagulls Flock Organization Inc. (PAGCOR). More help, including self-exclusion: self-exclusion and helpline guide and Paano tumigil sa online sugal. For advertising rules, see ASC circular and the PAGCOR tagline.