PAGCOR Favors Regulation Over Total Ban

PAGCOR calls for stricter online gambling rules in the Philippines

Philippines.- July 15 – www.zonadeazar.com Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR Chairman, stated that a total ban on online gambling will not solve industry issues, emphasizing that robust regulation is essential to protect the sector and its economic contributions.

Legislative debate in the Philippines

Senator Zubiri’s Bill proposes suspending all online gambling, but Tengco argues this is excessive, advocating for stronger regulatory frameworks instead of blanket bans.

Senator Gatchalian’s competing proposal suggests adopting stricter rules inspired by international models, including tighter advertising controls, excluding payment apps like GCash and Maya, and setting a PHP 10,000 (US$177) top-up limit.

Tackling illegal gambling through effective oversight

Tengco highlighted that illegal operators control 50-55% of the market, and effective regulation could capture a larger share, increase tax revenues, and avoid the unintended consequences of harsh prohibitions.

🔗 Editó: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com