The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has ordered the immediate removal of all billboard and out-of-home (OOH) advertisements related to gambling, as part of its efforts to regulate public gaming promotions and protect vulnerable sectors of society.
In a memorandum released on 7 July, PAGCOR directed all licensees, suppliers, system administrators, and gaming venue operators to dismantle gambling ads posted on trains, buses, jeepneys, taxis, and other public spaces. The agency emphasized that only institutional or responsible gaming campaigns — subject to its approval — will be allowed moving forward.
“We have given all our licensees and stakeholders until 15 August to completely remove all gambling-related ads,” said PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco. “Prior to that, stakeholders must als o submit an inventory of their existing billboard and wallscape advertisements by 16 July.”
The required inventory must detail the size, material, location, rental contract expiration, and permit number issued by the Ad Standards Council (ASC).
Tengco explained that the move is aligned with PAGCOR’s mandate to promote responsible gambling and minimize the potential for addiction, particularly among the youth.
“While PAGCOR is mandated to regulate the gaming industry and generate revenues for nation-building, we do not want to encourage a culture of gambling addiction,” he said.
“Regulating excessive and pervasive gambling advertisements is a critical step in protecting vulnerable sectors of society, especially the youth,” Tengco added.
PAGCOR also warned stakeholders against replacing the removed ads with new gambling promotions, stressing that violations will be dealt with accordingly.