PAGCOR and Ad Standards Council to screen all gambling ads

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Ad Standards Council (ASC) have partnered to tighten regulation of gambling advertisements.

Under a memorandum of understanding signed last week, all gambling-related ads — on TV, radio, online, and outdoor platforms — must now be screened and approved by the ASC before being released.

The move adds gambling to ASC’s “must-screen” list, which includes ads for alcohol, certain medicines, and food supplements.

“Almost a year ago, we began initial talks about this initiative,” said PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco at a ceremony at PAGCOR headquarters. “Today, we are gathered here to formally sign this agreement so that we can immediately execute everything we committed to in this memorandum of understanding.”

ASC Chairwoman Golda Roldan said the council supports PAGCOR’s push for more responsible messaging, calling it a sector where communication "requires greater sensitivity and care.”

On July 7, PAGCOR ordered the removal of all gambling ads on public transportation — including buses, taxis, and trains. Tengco said only ads promoting institutional or responsible gambling will be allowed moving forward.

“Regulating excessive and pervasive gambling advertisements is a critical step in protecting vulnerable sectors of society, especially youth,” Tengco stated. PAGCOR will only approve advertisements or campaigns that promote institutional or responsible gaming, he added.

All licensees and stakeholders must take down gambling-related ads by August 15.