The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (Pagcor), the nation’s casino regulator, says it has directed “all gaming operators and related stakeholders” to replace existing responsible gaming advertisements with promotional materials including the newly-launched National Problem Gambling Helpline (NPGH).
The step is part of the agency’s efforts to strengthen responsible gaming measures in the country, according to a Wednesday press release.
Per a memorandum issued on June 9 by Pagcor’s Gaming Licensing and Development Department, the requirement applies to all licensees, suppliers, gaming system administrators, gaming venue operators and other industry participants.
Under the directive, existing responsible gaming advertisements displayed on “billboards, wallscapes, digital displays and other out-of-home advertising platforms” are to be replaced with a standard NPGH advertising template.
The NPGH is a national helpline for people who consider themselves negatively affected by gambling. It officially launched on May 26 and operates 24 hours a day, according to Pagcor.
Wednesday’s announcement cited Pagcor chairman and chief executive, Alejandro Tengco, as saying the step was intended to ensure that assistance was readily available to individuals experiencing gambling-related harm.
“Responsible gaming goes beyond awareness. It also means ensuring that help is readily available to those who need it most,” Mr Tengco stated.
He added: “By promoting the NPGH that we launched recently, we can offer professional support for individuals and families affected by gambling-related harm.”
“This initiative reflects Pagcor’s commitment to foster a safer and more responsible gaming environment for all,” the Pagcor chief noted.
According to the regulator, all required advertising replacements must be completed by July 15 and maintained until September 15.
Mr Tengco said the NPGH promotional materials would not require approval from the country’s Ad Standards Council, with an exemption certificate to be issued by the organisation.
The regulator also said that all gaming operators must submit a status report on their advertising replacement programmes by July 16. Failure to comply could result in “regulatory sanctions and other penalties,” it added.
The latest directive forms part of a broader responsible gaming push by the Philippine regulator. In July last year, Pagcor ordered the removal of all billboards and other out-of-home gambling advertisements and introduced tighter restrictions on gaming-related promotions in public spaces.
