Philippines: PAGCOR Launches 24/7 helpline for Problem Gambling Support

New National Helpline Aims to Strengthen Responsible Gaming Measures

The new hotline, launched on May 26 at PAGCOR’s corporate office in Pasay City, offers confidential counseling and support services for individuals experiencing gambling-related harm, as well as for affected family members.

Confidential Support Available Around the Clock

The helpline, accessible through the number (02-8248-9568), connects callers directly with trained counselors and mental health professionals. The initiative was developed in partnership with Seagulls Flock Organization Inc. (SFO).

In a keynote speech delivered by Daniel Cecilio, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco stressed the importance of balancing regulation with compassion.

“This National Problem Gambling Helpline that we are launching today reflects PAGCOR’s commitment to ensure that the gaming industry remains productive, well-governed, humane, and accountable,” Tengco said.

He added that while gaming remains a form of leisure for many, it can also lead to financial hardship, emotional distress, and damaged relationships for vulnerable individuals.

Mental Health and Recovery at the Core of the Initiative

PAGCOR highlighted SFO’s long-standing work in mental health advocacy, addiction treatment, counseling, and behavioral wellness.

According to Tengco, the organization’s psychologists, counselors, social workers, and researchers have already helped many individuals rebuild their lives through evidence-based interventions and recovery programs.

The helpline will provide:

Immediate psychological support

Crisis guidance and triage

Referrals to treatment and rehabilitation centers

Long-term counseling assistance

First Dedicated 24/7 Gambling Harm Hotline in the Country

Teresita Castillo described the initiative as the first round-the-clock hotline in the Philippines dedicated specifically to gambling-related problems.

She emphasized that the partnership between PAGCOR and SFO bridges regulatory efforts with clinical and evidence-based treatment solutions for gambling harm in the Philippines.

Prior to the launch, PAGCOR and SFO also held a graduation ceremony for newly trained para-counselors who completed extensive programs covering:

Motivational interviewing

Cognitive behavioral therapy

Clinical response techniques

Crisis call management

Dedicated Team to Handle Nationwide Support

At launch, the program includes 12 para-counselors operating in three daily shifts to ensure uninterrupted nationwide support coverage.

PAGCOR stated that the organization plans to expand the team further as demand for gambling addiction support services grows across the country.