Pagcor Tightens Online Gambling Rules Amid Philippine Senate Scrutiny

The measures were outlined during a Senate Committee on Games and Amusement hearing, where regulators detailed steps aimed at strengthening consumer protection, preventing identity misuse, and curbing underage access.

Stricter KYC and Platform Access Controls

Pagcor officials confirmed that identity verification procedures have been reinforced to close previous compliance gaps. Jessa Mariz Fernandez, officer in charge of Pagcor’s Electronic Gaming Licensing Department, said operators are now required to complete initial KYC checks before allowing customers to fund their accounts.

“Ngayon po, hinihigpitan po natin na bago pa lamang po sila makapag-deposit ay makapag-present na po sila ng mga initial KYC requirements po nila (We are now tightening the rules so that even before they can deposit, they must already submit their initial KYC requirements),” Fernandez told lawmakers.

Under the revised process, registrants must provide their full name, contact details, a valid government-issued ID, and a real-time selfie with the ID. The move aims to address concerns raised in prior hearings about the use of borrowed or falsified identities and the potential exposure of minors to online gambling platforms.

In parallel, Pagcor is developing a guarantee application in partnership with a government bank to help ensure that consumers transact only with licensed operators.

Advertising Restrictions Under Review

On the marketing front, Pagcor chairperson Alejandro Tengco stated that gambling advertisements are already prohibited during primetime television and radio broadcasts, with discussions underway about extending the ban across all broadcast hours.

“Sa prime time po, bawal na po na mag-advertise (During prime time, advertisements are already prohibited),” Tengco said, noting that consultations with industry stakeholders are ongoing.

The regulator is also working with the Ads Standards Council to finalize implementing rules covering gambling promotions on social media and other digital platforms. Illegal advertisements are being monitored and referred for blocking to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center and the National Telecommunications Commission.

Additionally, Pagcor has ordered the removal of gambling-related billboards and other outdoor advertising materials as part of its broader compliance tightening.

Expanded Responsible Gaming Framework

Pagcor confirmed that it will strengthen its Responsible Gaming Practice in the first quarter of 2026. Among the measures is the localization of the message “Gambling is addictive, know when to stop,” to improve public awareness across different regions of the country.

Existing safeguards include online self-exclusion tools, accreditation of treatment and rehabilitation centers for problem gamblers, and stricter enforcement of identity checks.

The regulator is also preparing to launch a 24/7 confidential helpline offering counseling and support services for individuals experiencing gambling-related harm, as well as for their families.

Opening the Senate hearing, Committee Chair Senator Erwin Tulfo framed the inquiry as part of a broader legislative review of enforcement gaps and systemic risks.

“Gambling regulation is, therefore, no longer just industry oversight. It is now a matter of consumer protection, digital safety, and protection of the financial system,” Tulfo said.

As the Senate continues its examination, Pagcor’s latest measures signal a more assertive regulatory posture in one of Asia’s most dynamic and closely watched gaming markets.