Philippines’ licensed online gambling operators launch PlaySafe Alliance

Eighteen licensed online gaming operators and a law firm have formed the PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines, a coalition under the mission of creating a sustainable online gambling environment that benefits the nation while combating the illegal gaming market.

Members of the alliance’s Interim Council include DigiPlus, World Platinum Technologies, Trojans Well Entertainment, Gavin Ventures, Playmate Leisure Solutions, Stotsenberg Leisure Park & Hotel, Jade Entertainment and Gaming Technologies, Meta Interactive Software Solutions, and Enigma Software Solutions, as per a GGR Asia report.

Other signatories include Arden Consult, GoTech Entertainment, IGO Digital High Technology, NEMO Interactive Group, Nextstage Entertainment, RAC Phil, Silver Goose 8 International, Skyline Nexus, Webzoid System Solutions, and Xn Solutions.

DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco said the alliance aims to ensure the industry is “secure, transparent, and beneficial” for both players and the nation. He identified illegal and unmonitored gambling as the main threat to consumers.

According to the group, the initiative will promote responsible gaming, regulatory compliance, consumer protection, and a crackdown on unlicensed operators, which account for an estimated 70% of the country’s online gaming market.

“The real enemy when it comes to online gambling is the illegal market,” said the alliance's spokesperson, Mike Defensor, who is also president of World Platinum Technologies Inc. "No license, no regulation—minors can play, no taxes are paid, and rules are not followed. Instead of being protected, the public is put at risk.”

The formation of the alliance comes as the Philippines reviews its online gambling industry amid debates among lawmakers, regulators, and business leaders over how to balance public welfare with the sector’s economic contributions.

The PlaySafe Alliance said it will work closely with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to strengthen industry oversight, particularly in marketing and advertising practices. It also plans to implement stricter Know-Your-Customer measures, including improved age verification and self-exclusion programs, and to establish deterrents against illegal operators.

An independent advisory panel of local and international experts will be created to guide the group’s initiatives, which include consumer education and nationwide research, education, prevention, and treatment (REPT) programs.

The REPT programs will feature a 24/7 National Gambling Helpline, the group said, emphasizing that “by working as one, we can ensure that online gambling in the Philippines will be more secure, transparent, and beneficial to both players and the nation.”