PAGCOR pushes for united front vs gambling harm

Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco has called for deeper collaboration among industry stakeholders to curb problem gambling and promote responsible gaming practices.

Speaking at the 2nd International Conference on Responsible Gambling and Addiction on Monday, Tengco said a “whole-of-society” approach is needed to prevent gambling-related harm, including financial distress.

“As regulators, policymakers, industry operators, healthcare professionals, and academicians, we must not only share knowledge but also act as partners in understanding, preventing, and reducing the threats posed by problem gambling,” he said.

Tengco added that the conference theme, “Empowering Pathways: Problem Gambling and Gaming Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery,” reflects PAGCOR’s own initiatives in safeguarding player welfare.

Among PAGCOR’s current measures are the automatic exclusion of minors, students, and government employees from gaming venues, the regulation of gambling advertisements, and partnerships with rehabilitation centers. It also offers a Responsible Gaming Program that allows individuals or their families to request voluntary player exclusion.

“Gaming has inherent social risks, but with the right safeguards and collaboration among all sectors, we can ensure the safety and well-being of our players,” Tengco said.